For many of us, the holidays are a complicated time. So many emotions come up. So many memories flood our brains. It almost requires a daily practice to keep them all in check and from bubbling over.
I’ve found that this time of year requires a delicate dance. You may be feeling festive, joyful, or celebratory one moment, and then all of a sudden feel flooded with emotions from holidays of the past. You may find yourself missing people who are no longer part of your life, longing for traditions you no longer have, or struggling to implement new traditions. You may find yourself caught up in the madness and then find yourself trying to do your part to do less and keep it simple.
I find myself really cognizant of people’s swirling emotions at this time of year. Some fear that they can’t give what others are giving, others are anxious about not being able to keep up or keep it all together. I’m also mindful of my own emotions. One moment I’m decorating the tree with my granddaughter, laughing and dancing to Christmas songs, and the next moment I’m overwhelmed by memories of my kids when they were little and tears fill my eyes.