I’m writing this before Christmas, so I apologize for the outdated subject, but I can’t help but wish the spirit of Christmas lasts all year, or at least through the often dreary days of January.

I’m just talking about the joy. For whatever the individual reasons, people smile more, acknowledge each other more pleasantly, walk with a little skip in their step, and seem to say thank you and excuse me more often.

I personally love it—I don’t want it to go away.

In pondering what gets the applause for the shift of energy, I’m guessing it’s different for each of us, so I can only speak for myself:

I pay more attention to the present moment.

I am looking forward to the future more.

I’m putting more attention on others.

I’m doing more nice things for others—helping more.

I’m busier.

I check off my list faster—get-er-done!

I’m more aware of being grateful.

I’m out and about and see more people.

My standards are lower; I feel less guilt when I eat one more slice of fruitcake.

I watch less news and more Hallmark movies.

With that being said, I guess I just like myself better. Because of that, the world is brighter and lighter, and possibilities seem more within reach.

It feels like a continual circulation . . . I like me, and then I like you, and then you like me, etc. Joy and kindness perpetuate, rather than sorrow and worry.

Focusing on what I do differently during the holidays reinforces that my happiness and peace begin with me.

This conversation reminds me of a poem I wrote in 2004  on the topic of personal responsibility. It’s a little quirky, but I believe it’s true.

Peace begins with ME

Peace begins in all of us,

Each of us, I say.

Not just he or she or them,

But, you and I–today.

If I could really learn to love

Myself and who I am,

Then gifts of peace and kindness

Would flow from me – to you – to them.

If you would do the same, you see

Plus- he and she and them.

Just imagine how our world could change.

And it all began with me – not them.

We each contribute to our attitude shift during the holidays, and, sure, the lights and festivities help, but I just want us to remember we have the ability to carry the good feelings forward into January, February, June, or July, just like the lyrics in the great oldie, Shine on Harvest Moon.

Join me in remembering the power we each hold to be our best selves—just as we were during the holidays.

Until the next time: Live while you live.

Jennifer Goble, Ph.D., LPC, is the author of “My Clients…My Teachers,” and the blogger and writer of Rural Women Stories: www.ruralwomenstories.com.

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