My mother couldn’t contain her shock recently when, during the week of Halloween, which, as we all know, falls in the month of October, she began seeing ads that promoted Christmas deals and showed all of the images we associate with what has unfortunately become the biggest, most commercialized observance in our country. I keep seeing and hearing increasingly more observations being made about the fact that Christmas specifically was once about Christ, family, good cheer and the exchange of more than just material gifts; that it has become a mockery and a money-maker.I agree. Although I was born 2 days after Christmas, the hype of the holiday got to me a long time ago, and I don’t tend to “buy in.” My family has always kept it simple, and I’m grateful, for more than any gift they could buy me is the gift they are to me.Just this week, I’ve gotten word that 2 people close to me have lost loved ones. One suddenly and one who came to the end of a 97 years of life peacefully, surrounded by those she loved. I think about my 2 loved ones and what their focus is this holiday season. It most likely is not Black Friday, doorbuster deals, or long shopping lists. Nearest and dearest to them now are the memories of those they loved, the fact that life is a precious gift, and that we must make the most of it while we are here. I can almost guarantee that even in the hustle bustle of buying the Thanksgiving turkey and trimmings, they simply wish they could hear their loved ones’ voices again, hug their necks, and break the wishbone with them one more time.The tradition that I’m focused on this year is making sure that I live life fully, in the richness of the moment, and that I love out loud and deliberately. The most precious gifts aren’t those under the tree, but include hearing my parents’ laughter, reading to my nephew, and engaging with my students. The joy is not in what I can give materially, but in the moments when I can connect with a friend or stranger in enriching conversation or a smile from the heart.As we go make our way through what is indeed a cheery, beautiful time of the year, let us take care to be conscious of the gifts we are to each other and the gifts we have in each other. Say all of the affirming things you want to say, hug who you want to hug, and make it clear that not only now, but always, you will strive to celebrate life, and others’ lives. Recall that the reason we celebrate Christmas is to honor the birth of one who led humbly, loved unceasingly and walked in mercy and truth. Look for those who need a kind word, a door held for them, a hug. Observe others who exude the joy that we connect to this season, and immerse yourself in it. Make a choice that your very presence is a present to others.Enjoy a blessed Thanksgiving and Christmas, and most of all, enjoy being a living example of the spirit of the season! read more from Tonielle contributing writer for ExcellStyle Magazine @ www.excellstyle.com Posted on November 30, 2011 by shari in Excellent People, Featured, Toneille Bent
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