It’s the Most Stressful Time of Year?
Stress seems to be a central thread in everyone’s life this time of year, but I was wondering how we allowed it to take over. If you know me well I am not one to easily excite or worry and so I do not get caught up in the stress of the season. I wonder if it is just my personality or the lack of responsibility not having the hopes of a child to worry with yet.
What is it though about this time of the year? I thought it was supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year!?!
Many times it seems like to most people a time they would rather be reflecting on instead of staring at. I know the commercialization of the Holiday has definitely been an addition to the stress factor. Years ago children would be happy with a peppermint stick and some fruit. Families were focused on the joy of being together and reflecting on the years’ past. They weren’t zipping and zooming from one place to the next making sure they get exactly what their child wants. They would scrimp and save and thank God for the blessings they had been given during the past year.
How many more stuffed animals or Lego sets do our children need to be happy? What are we teaching them about where true happiness comes from? Do we reflect with our children on the blessings God has given us over the past year? Children are extremely receptive and impressionable, so if we start refocusing on why this season is the most wonderful time of year we can begin changing a generation.
I am not talking about a nativity set on the mantle or a birthday cake for Jesus even. A thorough reading of the Bethlehem story and the world Jesus was born into can lead into a great discussion of the blessing we have been given. Also sharing with our children that it is truly better to give than to receive. Working on an Operation Christmas Child box or taking a Christmas dinner to a family in need. Even going through our toy boxes and sharing the things we really don’t need with those with less fortune. If we are leading and showing this example to our children they will follow and grasp what you are trying to teach them.
This Christmas season, may you be truly blessed with family and friends. Remember all that He has done!
Merry Christmas
