Just a reminder, as we enter the Christmas season, social media influencers work overtime to convince us that we need more, new, and better everything Christmas-related. Meanwhile, everyone and everything we know hosts parties, game nights, get-togethers, and family gatherings,...
"She never goes anywhere."
"She stays home all the time. She never comes to anything."
"She is happiest when she is with her people."
"And, she isn't buying any new ornaments to replace the ones she bought last year!"
"Imagine! Using Christmas decorations you have had for years?!?! Doesn't she know that the light green garland is what all the influencers are using this year?? That dark green is so outdated!"
You, my friends, can say, "No. Thank you. We are staying home this year." You can keep scrolling past the influencers who just absolutely love the new mugs, lights, and sweaters that you must have this year. You can choose how you and your family spend this precious Christmas time. You do not owe anyone an explanation. We only get so many Decembers with our families, and we are certainly allowed to spend them in the way that is best for us. So, before it all begins, before the invitations from friends and neighbors, the phone calls and texts from all the extended family about get-togethers, and the notifications of community events start streaming in, show yourself some grace. See how you and your family feel this year, and which events you want to attend. Be intentional and leave room for blank calendar days. December days are short enough. If pajamas and Christmas movies are your thing, don't apologize. If you make plans and find that you cannot attend because you are feeling overwhelmed, cancel and reschedule. You owe that to yourself. If you are grieving the loss of a loved one, allow this Christmas season to be different, and again, show yourself some grace. Christmas is a time for peace. Allow that for yourself and your family, so that when the torn wrapping paper is gathered, the cookies are gone, and the ornaments are packed away, along with happy memories, that peace remains.
Happy Wednesday!
Billie Jo
And Thanks to Pinterest for the images.
