The Hustle and Bustle of Christmas

All the hustle and bustle the holiday brings is enough to put each one of us into a panic. So let me be the one to give you permission, yes permission. Permission to slow down, to pause and to share in the stillness the season offers. Sit, even if it is just for a minute and watch the peace that surrounds you. Color like when you were little. Sing along with the radio, no one can hear you anyway. Take a walk and if no one is watching, dance a little too. No twerking because someone may be watching. Take the long way home and enjoy the glimmering lights. Eat another cookie, they only appear once a year anyway. Warning too many cookies could be hazardous to your health and your hips.

While in line for expensive coffee enjoy the music. People watch as you sit waiting for the light to turn green. At every other light roll down your window and take in a breath of fresh air. Don't worry about getting the closest parking spot at the mall. The walk will help work off those cookies. Love because there is not enough love out there. Be kind because someone out there needs it. Be patient, yes even in traffic.

Stop the hurriedness! That one gift you can’t find or can’t afford doesn’t really matter. Don’t worry about the size of gifts under the tree, no one will remember what you got them next year anyway. Give joy and give lots of it. It costs us nothing because the price for it was paid many years ago.

But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people." - Luke 2:10