I think the answer is when we choose to "flip the switch." It has to be a choice we make to quit stressing, stop the running, end the to-do list (no matter how many items are left) and say, "It's time!" We decide to shift our focus from all the "stuff" and refocus our thoughts on the real priorities of the season. (Apparently we need to do the "stuff" to appease our conscience too some degree, or we just couldn't enjoy the holidays at all.) The priorites, as I'm sure you'll agree, are time with our family and reflection on who's birthday it really is. A time of sharing our love, showing appreciation for what our family means to us, and reflecting on what the year brought us.
Another choice that people apparently make this time of year is to decide to be "cheerful". With all the stress so many people are under, it seems strange sometimes to see how friendly some people are. I mean, it usually isn't THAT easy to get out into traffic...... It just shows me that kindness is a decision that we all make every day. Why do we tend to step it up on the holidays? Shame on us. It should be year around.....
Finally, this season is a time to reflect on the past year, and see what we did well and what we could do better. It's then a choice to decide whether we will learn from our last years mistakes, and not make them again this year or not. Can you say "new year resolutions"? I'm not going there now, so just relax and wipe that sweat off the back of your neck.
Karen and I are making a choice tomorrow morning. We're getting in car and driving for 17+ hours through a potential snow and ice storm to visit our "priorities".... our family. We hope that you enjoy the holidays and have "flipped the switch" by now and are in relaxation mode. Don't forget the true reason for the season -- Jesus Christ. God bless you all and Merry Christmas.
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