November 28, 2021
Good morning my friends. It’s crazy to think we’ll close out the month of November in a couple days. December is upon us and the Holiday season is already in full swing. With only 26 days until Christmas, it baffles me how quickly 2021 has passed by. I’m looking forward to Christmas and the New Year, but not quite so soon. My daughter will be visiting and that makes me super excited and happy! The possibility of another visitor is thrilling too! The holidays are always magical when they include family and friends. The “icing on the cake” for any celebration (especially for me), is sharing them with those we love. Life’s journey really is all about who we spend our time with; not necessarily the destination and definitely not the stuff. Quality time shared with fabulous people makes living worthwhile and wonderful. Any time spent with these special individuals, is a fantastic time of year for me.
I know, from my personal experience, holidays have the ability to increase anxiety, stress and sadness. I’ve already experienced an array of emotions; especially when it comes to family, friends and loved ones no longer with me. I do my best to cherish their wonderful memories and happiness we all shared. These thoughts of the past have the ability to bring on sorrow or create depression. The key for me, when experiencing these emotions, is not slip too deeply into the past. Remembering the legacy these amazing individuals created while they lived alongside me, always brings joy to my soul. The times shared and memories made, are what makes these people so special to me. The recollection of the joy always brings me back to the present. Special people in our lives deserve to be remembered, honored and cherished. Take the time to share your thoughts and feelings with the individuals still here, so they know exactly how you feel. Don’t hold that stuff in or wait! Express yourself and allow the positive energy to flow freely. It doesn’t matter if you like someone or love them. Show them through your actions and tell them how you feel every day.
What can you do to make the holiday season a little easier? Would reducing some of the stress and anxiety associated with this time of year help? The first thing that assisted me, not only in increasing my happiness and reducing stress, was letting go and releasing my own negativity. Changing my own attitude worked magic for my soul. Next, I did all I could to eliminate the chaos created by outside influences; like the media, retailers, manufacturers or anyone pushing an agenda. Reducing my daily exposure to social media (etc..) brought huge relief. I discovered limiting my time staring at a screen freed my mind and soul for wonderful things. I don’t spend as much time shopping at retail outlets, as in years past. When I do shop, I learned to shop smarter. Shop for what you actually need, rather than wandering from store to store. Make a list! This is a perfect time to shop at local businesses, especially with all that has occurred during the last two years. These small businesses can benefit from our support; plus they’re often less chaotic. You can always shop from the comfort of your own home to avoid traffic and crowds. I’m sure the deals will be out there, so don’t feel like you need to rush out or you’ll miss them. Why people continue to put undue pressure on themselves is beyond me. The reality is, we can create stress that is inflicted upon ourselves. Slow down my friends. What’s the huge hurry? Take time to relax, breathe and enjoy the holidays. These special and sacred days come but once a year. They will pass us by quickly, they always do, so cherish every moment.
“What if” you actually took the time to enjoy every moment? How would that make you feel? Then, “what if” you stayed mindful and present for all the days that followed? What a crazy concept to consider, right? It’s time to let go and forget about the past, it’s gone. Why are you still stressing over it? You can’t change what happened, but you can change your attitude and perceptions right now in the present. Don’t worry about the future, it hasn’t arrived yet. It’s great to make new plans, set goals or dream new dreams. Work every day to turn them into your reality. We are never too old to change or dream big. “What if” all your dreams actually came true? Would it be a Christmas miracle, the magic of the universe or just part of Gods plan? I’ve heard the phrase, “What if” many times and have experienced my own questioning moments. What I’ve learned during my life is, I can’t control others or all aspects of life. The more I try to alter events or people, the less success I experience. I have the ability to make decisions and turn those thoughts into actions. It doesn’t necessarily mean I am always doing what’s in my own best interest. There is a bigger plan, which always seems to intervene and push me onto a new path. It might not happen instantaneously, but it will happen. It has taken me many years to just sit with myself, breathe and allow the world to happen. Patience has become my new virtue, while I place my trust in God and the Universe. Slowing my pace, taking the time to appreciate and be grateful for life and everything around me has been a process. We don’t know when our time on this earth will end; so just enjoy the present, breathe and live today. Here I am; living, breathing and enjoying my life.
We’ve all endured struggles during life. We typically respond with, “Why is this happening to me?” The truth is, we all share many of the same or similar feelings. Many of us share and grapple with some of the same issues, thoughts, concerns, anxiety, stress and even negativity. These can range from personal, financial, health, relationship or loss related. Conflict in our life can sometimes be as routine as change. We may not like or care for either, but it’s important to know how to navigate through them when they occur. No one likes conflict, including me. When I encounter a change or issue I struggle with, it really comes down to how I perceive and resolve each incident. Maintaining a positive mental outlook, coupled with good health, always works its magic. Take the time you need to resolve or deal with each issue as it arises. Don’t allow the situation to envelop, consume or destroy you. Too often we allow ourselves to be surrounded with negativity from these types of scenarios. They drag us down and hinder our ability to cope and move forward. The antidot to this is to utilize your strengthens to move you forward. We are each equipped with them. You have to believe in yourself. Build your self-confidence and you can overcome any obstacle in your path. Believe me, I know you have the power. If you have doubts don’t hesitate to lean on family or friends to help support or pull you through. Don’t ever be fearful to seek assistance if needed, even if it means seeking professional guidance. We all need a helping hand from time to time; after all, we’re only human. I’ve been there too. Words of wisdom create hope and direction. Keep your attitude focused on your welfare and health. You are your best asset.
What I’ve discovered over the course of my life, “What if” has always been part of the plan. These are our dreams waiting to unfold in front of each of us. I work and reach for my dreams daily. They may take time, but always appear when I least expect it, or when I need them the most. This is all part of Gods universe. I know if I change my thoughts and attitude, I can change my world. I begin each day with gratitude and happiness. Stay positive and work hard every day to turn your dreams into reality. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
I want to celebrate my Jewish friends and their holiday heritage today. Hanukkah, begins today at sunset. The celebration is also known as The Festival of Lights or Feast of Dedication. This holiday celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. In the second century BC, legend says the Jewish people revolted against their Greek-Syrian oppressors in the Maccabean Revolt. The holiday takes place over eight nights. This tradition commemorates the burning of the menorah, which burned for eight days, while only having enough oil for one night. Lighting a candle each night, singing special songs, eating foods and giving praise are all part of this holiday tradition. The celebration will conclude at nightfall on December 6, 2021. It’s nice having friends and acquaintances of different backgrounds, cultures and religious beliefs. We can learn so much from an amazing and diverse group of friends and other humans. Happy Hanukkah!
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The healthy life puzzle is always in rotation. Let’s be healthy and strong mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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