Midweek Encouragement - "How to Keep Your Cool During the Holidays”

"How to Keep Your Cool During the Holidays”

  ^{If you’re anything like me, you try to do as much as you can during the holiday season. And, if you’re anything like me, you might wonder, “How do I keep my cool and stay calm as I look forward to celebrating Christmas with family and friends?”}

         ^{Wouldn’t you agree that the key to staying calm during the holidays is to remember what's important? Christmas isn't about having the perfect decorations or spending the most money on presents. It's about celebrating the birth of Christ, being with family and enjoying each other's company. Celebrating the New Year gives us a chance to start fresh and plan for God’s future. Keeping our focus on the things that truly matter can help us maintain perspective and appreciate the holidays for what they really are. Don’t forget that there are many ways to celebrate and concentrate on experiences instead of stuff.}

         ^{Obviously, we’re not limited to one specific way of celebrating. You’re not obligated to follow all of the traditions passed down from generation to generation that may not fit your current lifestyle or who you are. Instead, why not create new traditions that reflect who you and your family are and what’s important to you all. Can I suggest some meaningful ideas to help you make the most of your holidays?}

^{1. Set aside an hour or two each day to spend with your family members, but make sure it's quality time. Consider kindly asking everyone to put down their devices for this short time and focus on face-to-face conversation.}

^{2. Have a game night, or talk about your favorite holiday memories. Pamela and I love having Friday night pizza and game night with our three grandsons and Megan and Bryan. We order pizza from our favorite pizza parlor, play UNO or a simple “no thinking” kind of game, and just BE together.}

^{3. Here’s an idea I’m planning to start this week . . . Go for a walk with your spouse or significant other to enjoy the lights around town. Take your time and dress warmly so you don’t have to rush back home to get warm. And you might want to consider wearing an orange vest so you’re visible to cars passing by. Safety first, right?!}

^{4. Take a moment each day to appreciate the simple moments of joy. A few minutes without the loud (but enjoyable) Christmas music can serve to refreshen even the most stressed mind.}

^{When you’re feeling overwhelmed with all the activities of the season, take a few moments to get centered. Distance yourself from those difficult situations, and go somewhere to get some breathing space. Take a few moments to clear your mind and whisper a prayer asking the Spirit to restore your peace. Then, when you feel ready, return to the situation with a calmer mindset.}

         ^{One final thought . . . When it comes to life, try not to let the small stuff get you down. I realize that it can be difficult to ignore the little annoyances and obstacles that come up during this season, but try to keep them in perspective. Focus on the bigger picture rather than getting caught up in the details. Look beyond the momentary frustrations and see the beauty of the reason God sent His Son to rescue you. Whatever you do, don't let minor mishaps ruin your day. Take them in stride and adjust as needed. I’m convinced that when we practice gratitude, we’ll avoid getting caught up in the small stuff. Take a few moments to appreciate the little joys of the holidays. Whether it's spending time with family, celebrating traditions, or baking cookies, focus on what you’re thankful for.}

         ^{Whatever you do, don't put too much pressure on yourself. The holiday season is often full of activities and social obligations, but it's important to give yourself a break. Balance work, family, and social commitments with relaxation, self-care, and some much-needed "me time." Trying to do too much is a surefire way to feel overwhelmed and exhausted and to become the Scrooge that no one likes.}

^

^{Pastor Dale}

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this message with anyone you choose. And if you'd like to receive PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send an email to (kingdomguy@gmail.com) and I'll accommodate your request.