Do You Believe in Magic?
Growing up, my mother was insistent about creating holiday traditions, so we carved pumpkins on Halloween; attended Independence Day parades; colored Easter eggs; and played Nat King Cole while we made cookies for Christmas. (The last one I particularly love because my sons now carry on the tradition.) The only break in traditional holiday celebrations was Thanksgiving. My father did not like turkey so we always had roast beef instead … something that my elementary school classmates could not fathom! What I remember most about those times was simply being together. When you reminisce about the holidays, it’s likely you feel the same, though now you may get caught up in all the stressors associated with the holidays too.
A recent article in the New York Times entitled The Magic of Less ‘Holiday Magic’ explained that “some people respond to the stress of the season by adopting a Marie Kondo approach: relinquishing the rituals that no longer bring them joy.” That sounds like a very practical way to lessen the busyness of the holiday season, but how to increase the joy? That feels like an enticing question.
If we think of kindness or compassion or joy or love as an energy, then to share it, we can simply set the intention to infuse that energy into the gifts we give, the songs we sing, the meals we prepare, the candles we light, the times we share with co-workers, neighbors, friends, and family. There is the story of the little girl who very proudly handed her father a box tied with a big silver bow. When he opened it, the box was empty. Ready to give his daughter a lesson in gift-giving, he began to tell her that the box should contain something. With tears shining in her eyes, she replied, “but Daddy, it does have something in it – I blew 100 kisses into the box just for you.” We can tell who got the lesson on gift giving that day!
Sharing something of ourselves can be the most special gift and remembering that as we rush to find the last perfect gift or the just-right ingredient can help lessen the stress and increase the joy, for the magic is in giving from our hearts.
As much happiness as the holidays can bring, it can be a difficult time for many. Check in on loved ones, particularly those who live alone. Invite them out for a meal or a walk in the park. Take the time for a leisurely conversation. Let them know you care.
And let’s pause for a moment to send some love to people who:
- Lost a loved one this year
- Are working on the holidays
- Don’t have a family or friends to be with
- Are facing financial hardships
- Don’t have a safe, warm place to sleep
- Are coping with physical ailments or mental illness
- Are sad or lonely, distressed or healing from trauma
Let us also consider how we can help. Although most people think of volunteering in November and December, the need is year-round. Donating to nonprofits like Soul Seeds is vital to their success. Another way to give, the act of volunteering, can be a source of joy any time of year. Just last week, I wore my reindeer antlers (yes, I have several pairs) to volunteer during my usual shift at the food bank. A gentleman who speaks little English lit up with glee when he saw the antlers and gave me a big hug. It was such a sweet gesture from someone I’ve seen over the last two and half years who usually wants to get his food and leave quickly, but in that moment his delight unexpectedly warmed my heart. I hope you’ll receive (and share) many moments of kindness that surprise and enchant you.
May this holiday season be a special one, filled with laughter and joy. May all know peace, abundance, and compassion. May we ring in the new year with high hopes and loving intentions, trusting the magic that’s inside our hearts and its power to uplift our lives and the lives of others. Here’s to believing in the incredible magic of you!
Melanie Davis-Jones (she/her/hers) Executive Director
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