The Tuesday Before Christmas
December days are flying by
It’s all I can do but seek peace from moment to moment. Some moments I think I have enough cupped within my palms, but in others, I completely forget to check. I lose track of myself in detail after detail. Hours later, I look up and realize I’ve dug myself into a deep hole that I have to climb out of to find perspective. I don’t even realize I’m gasping for breath by the time I get to the top. At that point, I need a cup of tea or a puppy. Thankfully I have both within arm’s reach these days.
It isn’t about being mindful as much as it’s about just plain keeping track of my mind, guarding from a higher vantage point rather than getting swallowed up in a swimmer’s pace under water. I’d rather play offense, than get drowned in a defensive position these days. I’d rather take a deep breath and tell the truth than get caught up in a passive state of mind where I’m not choosing where I stand.
Do yourself a favor and don’t settle. Know what you want and seek it fully and persistently. Don’t let the days go by too quickly. Take a moment. Find a pause. Rally your time and do what’s best for you and those around you. I’m telling myself this as much as I’m writing this down for you. Do what you need to in order to enjoy this week.
Some practical things I’m doing this week to stay present:
Keep Jesus at the heart of this season - remember why and everything else will fall into place.
Just keep writing - similar to what I did Thanksgiving week.
Listen to Christmas music - I created a Sassy Christmas playlist, so I’m turning that up on the speakers as much as possible this week. I invite you to listen to it as well :)
Be grateful for friends and family, co-workers and cashiers - smile, encourage and laugh often!
Keep an upbeat mindset - stay hopeful, joyful and peaceful.
Reminder: it’s okay to be stressed as a natural motivator, but not as a depressant or distraction. (More to come on this thought at a later time.)
I have nothing to prove, just life to live.
