Holidays
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Room for potential
“We spend January 1st walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives…not looking for flaws, but for potential.” – Ellen Goodman, American journalist Last week I read an article suggesting that we consider renaming our New Year’s resolutions “intentions” — and to forgive ourselves if we fall short of our goals later on. But I think Ellen Goodman has a better spin on the whole resolution thing. Instead of simply correcting our bad habits or repairing our shortcomings, why not explore…
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Post-holiday musings
“Today is the day the post-holiday blues usually drop in for their annual visit. After any strenuous exertion, especially one that’s lasted several weeks, there’s a natural letdown in energy and enthusiasm.” ~Sarah Ban Breathnach, Simple Abundance Like clockwork, holiday letdown almost always follows a festive series of events — no matter which winter holiday we celebrate. At the beginning of December, our energy runs high as we plan for parties and concerts, decorate our homes, and create special memories for loved ones. Our usual routines and responsibilities — even our worries — are temporarily suspended. Then the holiday arrives … and then it’s over … in a minute! We…
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Consider the possibilities
“Sometimes the place you are used to is not the place you belong.” ~William Wheeler, screenwriter It’s not too early to start thinking about our New Year’s resolutions. Or maybe we should start reframing them as “possibilities” rather than resolutions? Maybe we could begin by simply considering something new to try — rather than resolving or correcting a problem. Today’s quote reminds me that I’d like to explore new avenues in my writing career, just for one example. I tend to stick with “safe” markets — familiar publications in which I’m comfortable or where my work is typically published rather than rejected. These are the places I’m “used to.” Just…
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Help for the holidays
“One of the most important ways to reduce stress is to ask for help. This works not only during the holidays, but also all year ’round.” – Dr. Daisy Sutherland It’s no secret that many folks find the Christmas season more stressful than fun. Some of us have trouble saying “no” when it comes to stuffing every moment in December with perpetual activity. We might wonder if “exhaustion” is a synonym for “Christmas spirit.” (Why must we squeeze everyone there is to see and everything there is to do into one cold month of the year?) This year, make a point of asking for help when you need it. Divide and…
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Redefining “family”
“Family was a bigger word than I imagined, wide and without limitations, if you allowed it, defying easy definition. You had family that was supposed to be family and wasn’t, family that wasn’t family but was….It was possible to lack whole, honest love and connection from family in lead roles, yet to be filled to abundance by the unexpected supporting players.” ~Deb Colette, The Secret Life of Prince Charming The winter holidays traditionally shine a bright light on our family relationships. Sometimes that’s a beautiful thing, and sometimes … not so much. It’s weird, when you think about it. Relatives we don’t see as often, know as well, or like as…
