Every Merry Moment
Three weeks from today is Christmas, and four weeks from today is New Year's Day, 2014.Does that sentence take your breath away? Did 2013 just flash before your eyes?You aren't alone. I feel as though this year has evaporated like a fine morning mist, and not just because it's been remarkably tumultuous.Last week, as I checked in on a Compass call, I mentioned how I was determined to enjoy the holiday season - Christmas, especially - as much as possible. I said, "I'm putting on the brakes so I can enjoy every moment."One of the other three women on the call asked, "How do you do that, Ellen?"I explained what works for me:
- listening to Christmas music as much as possible; on cable's seasonal music station, on the radio, on YouTube - wherever I can find it
- watching TV specials I loved as a child, like "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," "Frosty the Snowman," and "A Charlie Brown Christmas;" reviewing beloved Christmas movies, like "White Christmas" and "Miracle on 34th Street;" taking advantage of Hallmark Channel's family-friendly seasonal viewing
- being mindful
Those were examples that came to mind quickly, and others have since then:
- spending as much time as possible with present loved ones
- reflecting on holidays spent with now-passed loved ones
- retelling beloved stories of days-gone-by
- taking the time to meditate on the beauty of the Christmas tree
- driving around neighborhoods that offer up bountiful displays of festivity
- attending holiday-centric events, like those offered up here
- allowing myself to believe
- giving thanks for the abundance of blessings in my life
Life is precious, and these special spiritual pockets are fleeting. By reveling in and being completely present in them, you're laying a warm foundation that will support you during those cold days that have nothing to do with air temperature.As you light the menorah, haul out the holly, and toast to the new year, make the most of every merry moment.How do you make the most of the moment?
