It is that time of year again, as we celebrate religious and cultural holidays, with family and friends! This is worldwide and multi-cultural! These holidays are often promoted as a celebration of peace, joy and family!
Are family celebrations of the holidays a true sharing of peace and joy? Are they also often a time of great stress and family strife?
Why do people evolve from embracing the spirit of joy to a determined effort to get everything done? Is there an over emphasis on giving and receiving rather than sharing? Is there an obsession with buying, wrapping and delivering gifts? Is there a competitive component to matching or even out doing the efforts of siblings and other family members? Are there extreme efforts made to outdo others and show who is the best? Are family get-togethers reminiscent of junior high rivalries and pettiness?
Does the commercialism of Christmas and the other holidays, obscure the “spirit of the season” into a get, get, get mindset? Do past grievances and remembered slights foster desires to balance the scales and get payback?
“The holidays stress people out so much. I suggest you keep it simple and try to have as much fun as you can.”–Giada DeLaurentis
Does your holiday focus on peace and joy or stress and obligations? Do you know why and do you understand, how it came to be? Is it a family tradition? Would you like to continue the tradition for future generations? Are you ready for a change? Is some straightforward and open communication needed?
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