December Mama Message
"The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away."
- Pablo Picasso
Gratitude and generosity are characteristics that can be fostered all year long, yet we tend to focus on these more at holiday time… Gratitude is an everyday attitude in our family, with practices in the morning, around the dining table, and sprinkled throughout the day. Generosity takes a bit more time and thought. In a society that overflows with excess, we need to think long and hard about our giving impulses, and consider how we can give in a way that is thoughtful, sustainable, and from the heart.
As a child I loved the spirit of the holidays with both sides of the family gathering together for many festivities. Of course I looked forward to the gifts, but what I remember most is the feeling of the season. The beautiful lights everywhere, the music, the stories, the aromas of orange, clove, cinnamon, spruce and fir… and the warmth of family.
This can be a challenging time of year for many… especially now! I like to think of how we can give the gift of our time to others, and to offer activities and gatherings that bring us together with special meaning. It could be a quiet dinner, a lively outdoor bonfire, or a simple walk in the woods or by the water with a friend. Consider coming together for a story-telling evening with family or friends, or leading a singalong in the neighborhood. Whether you are gathering with just a few or many… meaningful moments can be infused into our time in community.
Think back to your own childhood and try and remember a favorite memory from the holidays. Ask your family what their wishes are for the season. Look at this time of year through a child’s eyes, and savor the magic of childhood. We can simplify and yet at the same time amplify the true meaning of the season! Our children are looking to us for inspiration, and they are watching the ways in which we celebrate the special events. Let’s make the most of this magical time together!
Wishing you all the best for a healthy and wondrous holiday!
Warmly,
Maria