Expect nothing enjoy everything

We are a little over three weeks away from the biggest day of the year, December 25^th. We want to taste the warm apple cider with that perfect dash of cinnamon; feel the strong, slow hugs from family and friends; see the soft, white snow as it falls gently on the glowing holiday lights; smell the burning fire as we remember wonderful times past; smile as we hear the carols that bring touching memories, and bubble over with excitement as we anticipate that perfect gift from our special someone showing that he/she really cares.

That is what we want, plan for, work toward, and expect. Is it any wonder that the day comes and goes and we are left with feelings of exhaustion and relief that it is finally over?

We are each responsible for our own feelings. We set ourselves up at Christmas. We expect too much. We build a Norman Rockwell picture in our mind and then allow ourselves to be sad or mad or hurt when reality doesn’t meet those ideals. My best advice for all of us is to expect nothing, but to enjoy everything. It is our expectations that cause that hollow feeling. We expect things that are not only improbable, but next to impossible. We try to be everything for everyone. And, if we are not, we load ourselves down with nasty feelings of guilt, shame, or despair. What happened to Norman Rockwell?

So try it. Expect nothing! Show up with a good attitude, and see what happens. You could be surprised. Enjoy everything! Joy, peace, excitement, etc., are nearly impossible to plan. So just expect nothing and enjoy everything that comes your way!

On a side note: don’t forget to treat yourself well. Buy yourself that gift and put it under the tree. That way, you actually receive that perfect gift from your most special someone showing that he/she really cares.

Until the next time: Live while you live!