Have a Merry, Simple, Christmas

Discover the gifts you can give yourself this Christmas!

Transcript

This year, as we begin counting down the days until Christmas, we start to double check the gifts under the tree to make sure we haven’t forgotten anyone. Some of us even have a box in our closet of simple gifts we can give in a pinch to a delivery driver, a teacher, or a neighbor. 

What we don’t often think about – or even put on our Gifts to Give list, are gifts we give ourselves. Maybe this year, we need to change that. Here are a few gifts I hope and pray you give yourself:

One of the most meaningful gifts you can give yourself this year is being fully present in the moment. Take the time to slow down and genuinely connect with those around you. Grab two mugs of hot chocolate and sit down with a friend for a visit. Seek out your older relatives and ask them to share their stories and holiday memories. Take a child on a nature walk and listen as they speak of the world from their perspective. And take time to just find a quiet moment to reflect on all of your joys and blessings – not just in this holiday season, but also in the every day.

Give yourself the gift of awe and wonder. Stop and breathe deeply when you pass by the live Christmas tree. Take a walk through the neighborhood, or a drive around town and looking at all the Christmas lights. Step outside and watch the snow fall or gaze at the jewel studded starry night. Offer up prayers for the people who are traveling in the planes that pass overhead. Don’t allow the routine and busyness steal your joy. Instead, find the magic in every single moment. 

Give yourself the gift of finding the hidden joys in routine activities, such as wrapping gifts, baking cookies, or even washing the dishes after a holiday meal. Think about the person who will be receiving the gift, and how much they mean to you. Taste not only the deliciousness of the cookie itself, but the delight and smiles of others who are enjoying them. And see the chore of washing dishes and cleaning up after a holiday meal as a blessing that provided you with family and friends to gather with you to celebrate Christmas. 

From our home to yours, I am wishing you a Christmas filled with awe, wonder, delight, and the joy of a Savior who brings the best gift of all. 

Merry Christmas everyone!

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Thanks again for stopping in. I will see you next week on Living a Simple Life with a Back Porch View. And while you are waiting for the next episode, grab that glass of refreshment, pull up a rocker, and sit back for a while. It’s time to relax and enjoy.