Open up any present this holiday with family by your side and what you’ll find is more than just a gift. Have you ever looked at it that way? If not, now is a great time to start. At Christmas, people are about the mission of bringing cheer to others through a card, a gift, a gesture and let’s not forget through food. Getting caught up in the ability to give or not, will sometimes make people feel blue during the holiday. However, I want to share with you just how much your presence matters.
Yes, every family has tension between relatives and yours is probably no exception. However, making a decision to be present for those that love you is priceless. You’ll find someone walking around with a selfie stick this holiday. They’re creating memories that cannot be replaced. Time is something that you cannot get back.
Aunts and uncles can light up the lives of little nieces and nephews like no other. That little one’s run, jump and hug is about more than just the lights and festivities. It is a genuine gesture that they are glad to have you in their lives. You’ve brought them joy with comments about their grades, playing a quick game of basketball and holding their hand as they cross the street. The conversations that you have with them means so much.
Cousins are like sisters and brothers in many families. They are usually the ones who were your age growing up, that you did everything with. If you are feeling down, there’s nothing like a precious memory with a cousin to cheer you up.
If you’re that critical one who has something to say about everything and everybody, keep it to yourself. Think about it, negative views about someone else comes from a dark place inside of you. What you’re doing is harboring negativity. Since no good comes from spreading gossip; why not try to turn that negative into a positive before the year ends? When you see that person that you’re holding these feelings towards, offer them a smile. Even if you don’t get a smile in return, feel good that you’re trying to change the tides of the relationship. When you consider saying something negative, pinch yourself and keep it inside. That positive energy will do you good.
In your presence, family members and friends can just be themselves. They feel safe. It’s where you can be yourself, if you sincerely try. Someone may arrive with a negative attitude, but go on and offer them a smile, instead of the same cold shoulder. You never know what’s going on in their lives. Your smile could start a positive energy chain throughout the event.
Family gatherings are where the smart, tired, weird, happy, lazy, grumpy and yes, hungry characters in every family convene in one place to let their hair down and relax. So go enjoy yourself and spread some holiday cheer. If you truly can’t make it, call and let them hear your voice. Time is getting away from us every second of the day. This holiday make sure that you cherish every moment, because there’s no better time than now.
Have a Happy Holiday and Merry Christmas everyone!
I have been told, “You are sitting on gold with that mind and voice of yours.” So I use it to inspire others. Until next time, I’m Nicole Cabell.
Nicole Cabell
