The holidays are an interesting time of year. It’s the time of year when once again you are reminded of where you come from. That should not imply that you come from someplace awful, nor that you come from all things splendid, either. But, at best, you see reminders everywhere that there was a beginning to this thing we all live in called life, and somebody had a say so in how it would start for you.
When I think about the holidays a lot of thoughts come to mind. These days what it kicks up for me is, rest and recovery. I’m so glad I no longer feel indebted to people by spending lots of money on them or time in a store looking for something they’re not going to use, simply to prove to them that they are important to me.
I know that this may be my sentiment (but, if I had to guess from the people I speak to, I’d say I wasn’t alone), but in some cases, this is what I’ve learned about how holidays can mask some of the truths that we avoid dealing with (and by the way, this list is not exhaustive):
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- What other people think of you does not, nor should not begin with what material items you give them.
- Everyone has a different love language, one of which may be giving gifts, and that might be completely different than what you value.
- How gifting makes other people feel can have a powerful impact on you, but it should not be the motivating reason for giving someone else a gift.
- Giving comes in various forms, but not everyone will notice that.
- The size of your gift is not a reflection of how you always feel about someone.
- What other people think of you does not, nor should not begin with what material items you give them.
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As an individual who enjoys giving gifts, as well as receiving gifts, I’ve learned that gift giving has a lot of different meanings for people, and it is in being thought about and considered that I find the most joy in exchanging gifts.
I learned a long time ago not to tie my identity nor my attachment to people through immaterial things. Whether it’s the holidays or any other day of the year, I want to be reminded of the many, many gifts I’ve been given internally to heal and be helpful in someone else’s healing, as well as to notice and be present to the many, many gifts that people in my life, and strangers too, bequeath me. I believe that it is in the minute things that we become more awakened to how bountiful life really is. What do you think?
Footnote: This year has been an extraordinary one for many of us. I personally want to thank each and every one of you for subscribing, reading, sharing, commenting, and sending me messages about how this blog has opened new ideas, thoughts, concepts and practices for you. It has been quite rewarding for me to do this work, while simultaneously keeping me grounded in a tumultuous year for our world. May your days ahead be peaceful, inspiring and transformative and may you be renewed by the transforming of your spirit! I look forward to hearing from you lots more in the new year. Stay empowered.
Asha…
*This blog is about becoming free. It’s a reflection of introspective thoughts and experiences that have crossed miles of self-discovery. I created this blog to inspire others to live life with less self-criticism, judgment and openness to new experiences. May you find that you learn how to live a life by design and on your own terms!*