“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas / Ev’rywhere you go…” A beautiful reminder for those who love and celebrate this holiday to see all the decorations: houses lit up on cold winter nights, bell ringers outside stores with “SALE” signs in windows, even Santa sledding on an electric razor on television.
For those of us who are not Christians, however, it’s a constant reminder of our differentness. The saturation of our culture in the Christmas holiday makes this a difficult time of year. How do those of us who swim against the tide maintain perspective in the midst of the season?
For me, I remind myself of what’s really important to me. I find the commercialism and gift-giving particularly difficult and have tried to bow out of family activities that involve gift-giving. But I’ve come to realize that, though this tradition isn’t meaningful to me, it makes the grandparents happy to give my children gifts, and my children feel loved and happy receiving those gifts.
I also remember that the basics of living my self-care are more important than ever this time of year: deep breathing, regular exercise, healthy food choices, a good night’s sleep. I make the holiday my own as much as possible, holding to traditions that are meaningful to me and letting go of the rest. “Peace on earth and goodwill toward men” is a gift I give myself every year.
Thank you to Angela, mom of 2 from Wisconsin, for this invaluable perspective in today’s post.
drdianesanford.com 
Hi Angela,
I can relate to your sentiments. I went to a celebration of Winter Solistice last night which marks the beginning of the sun’s return (longer days) and an opportunity to plant the seeds of our future as the growing cycle starts beneath the earth. I find this to be a meaningful ritual and not one I celebrated growing up but one which speaks to me now. I think spirituality is an important aspect of life and you need to discover what works for you. Thanks for your post.
Best always, Diane
Diane, thanks. We celebrate the Solstice/Yule here, too. My kids get to open one gift on Yule, then the rest with extended family on Xmas Eve. I was prepared to appreciate the full moon and lunar eclipse last night as well, but we had snow and cloud cover the entire night.
Thanks for the opportunity to share on your blog. You wouldn’t believe how hard it was to pare it all down to 250 words. I am rather wordy! LOL.