Unfortunately, it is also too easy during this time to let festive occasions become aggravations. Taking a moment to step back from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be just as important as throwing ourselves into decking the halls, and can make our enjoyment of the excitement even greater by letting us engage in it with a clean and relaxed heart. With that in mind, I offer a second set of "mini meditations" with the holiday season in mind.
Meditation One: The forest through the trees
Has rushing from store to store and standing in endless lines to find the perfect gift for a loved one left you ready to snap at them when you finally arrive home? Sometimes, when we are rushing to make everything perfect for those we love, we stress ourselves out so much that we forget that just the gift of our kind words and attention can mean more than a herculean effort at the mall. To cure this, spend a few minutes walking around a local Christmas tree farm (without thinking of buying lights, ornaments, or anything else!). Watch for squirrels playing together, for parents and children working hand in hand to get their tree...and remember that just being there can be the greatest gift of all.
Meditation Two: Reflect on a gift from the heart.
Everywhere we turn this holiday season, there are reminders that there are multitudes of people who have a lot less than we do. Giving to charity should never be construed as a chore...but next time you choose to do so, make it a gift for yourself too. When you put a dollar in the red Salvation Army can, or purchase a gift for Toys for Tots, take a moment to visualize the look on a disadvantaged child's face when "Santa" really does come on Christmas morning. Better yet, volunteer yourself, so you can see the delight in the eyes of one you have helped.
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