One week till Christmas and all through the house there are lots of decorations, but you’d be hard pressed to find gifts. That’s because we don’t buy gifts anymore, at least not many and not expensive ones, the way we used to.
That has been a very conscious choice for a couple of reasons.
1) We don’t need anything, and we have too much stuff as it is. If we want/need anything through the year we just buy it. Plus, we don’t have kids so there isn’t that aspect of it for us.
2) I believe consumerism is a big part of our global environmental issues. I’m not the only one who believes this to be the case either. We are inundated with advertising and people telling us we need all this stuff in order to be happy. Maybe it’s just because I’m getting old, but I just ain’t buyin’ that line. All my stuff isn’t what makes me happy, that’s for sure. It often feels more like a burden than a joy.
So, what does give me joy at this time of year (or any other for that matter)? Loving and appreciating the people in my life and the Christmas lights and decorations and the music and the corny movies and Christmas dinner. Being kind and gentle with myself and others. Quiet times of reflection and prayer. Being present right where I am and exactly as things are.
It is from these kinds of things that my joy arises and, even though it may fly in the face of popular thought, this is how I choose to spend my Holiday Season.
I hope you are spending yours in joy doing things you love.
Namaste
