Thanksgiving. It’s the unofficial beginning of the holiday season, lasting until the end of the year. It can also be very stressful as we try to cram in all the extra parties and special events, shopping and cooking. My most disliked chore? Shipping boxes to out-of-state family, despite the fun of choosing gifts. Whatever your faith (or none), we are all vulnerable to both the joys and stresses of the coming weeks.
At a talk to a church women’s group two weeks ago, I had the women gather at five round tables. Each had a different question to discuss, then shared the outcome of their discussions with the whole group. One of the questions was What does our culture tell us Christmas is ‘supposed’ to look like? I had held up a picture in Southern Living magazine and they all groaned at seeing everyone pictured in holiday attire; table with a bountiful array of delicious foods; a tree (or two) beautifully decorated with elegantly wrapped gifts underneath. Wow! The group’s suggestions? Don’t look at such magazine if they make you feel inadequate. Only do what gives you pleasure. Maintain your own traditions.
Another question was Since money is a source of stress for many people, what are some free or inexpensive gifts you can give? The group had fun with that one. Ideas included: chronicle your family history by assembling pictures, letters; invitation to a special meal; babysitting; put together a book of favorite family recipes; homemade baked goods, such as jams or breads; take children to a museum or ball game; make something from your heart, such as an apron for a child. Be creative!
Above all, be realistic. The bigger the gap between your expectations and reality, the more your stress level goes up. After all, the goal of this wonderful season is to love, to share, to care. Thanksgiving starts the holiday season, but remember to keep giving “thanks” every day until the end of the year…and into the next one.