Earlier this week, I had the privilege of speaking at a
women’s event. The theme for the evening was Joy in the Journey, and I asked
the women this question:
What
perfect plans do we need to let go of this year in order to feel the joy of
Jesus’ birth?
December
can be a whirlwind of activity…decorating, shopping, visiting, and traveling, while
still maintaining home, work, and normal daily activities.
No
wonder we get tired and stretched thin.
After
the event, I asked myself the same question. What do I need to let go of?
The
thing is, I feel like I’ve let go of a lot over this past year. With ongoing
health issues in my family, the stress has taken its toll on me. I let go of
perfection a long time ago. Things I used to keep up with don’t get done as
often, and I’ve stopped feeling guilty about it.
I’ve
let myself off the hook, and I spend more time just being with those who need
me. (And not trying to multi-task at the same time.)
So,
what else can I let go of? Where can I peel a layer (even if it’s a very thin
layer) of stress off of my shoulders?
Christmas
cards.
Maybe
that sounds silly, but it’s the task that keeps coming to mind. Each year, I
make a list of whom to send a card too. I always plan to write personal notes,
but that usually doesn’t happen. They just end up getting mailed at the last
minute because I thought I’d have time…and then I didn’t.
So,
this year, instead of going through the charade and stressing over it for the
next two weeks, that’s my decision. If you don’t receive a Christmas card from
my family…please don’t take it personally.
Instead,
I’m going to think about the Advent season we’re in and what it means. And I’m
going to continue to spend my non-multi-tasking time with those who need me.
And…I’ll
ask you—what do you need to let go of in this Advent season?
In Christ,
Laura
Photo credit: FreeImages.com
Linking up with: Everyday Jesus, Thought Provoking Thursday, Grace & Truth, #TellHisStory, Five Minute Friday, Faith 'n Friends
Laura, I applaud you for the changes you have made and for choosing to focus on the Advent season and what it means, and prioritizing time with those who need you. Visiting from FMF. Blessings.
ReplyDeleteMy the Lord Bless you and your family with Health and joy this beautiful season.
ReplyDeleteWorking on cards this very moment. In the past, I let go of hosting the neighborhood christmas coffee, but I know God said yes to that one this year. I'm praying that I'll be and do what's on His list for me - and that's staying close to Him - so I'll pray daily to let go of distractions from that Wish of His ! have a great non-card day!! sue at welcomeheart
ReplyDeleteThis year I am letting go of the over-exuberance of gifts. I tend to go overboard with gift giving. I try to include EVERYONE and it is not good on my budget. So this year we are scaling waaaaay back. And the gifts we ARE getting are geared toward experiences.
ReplyDeleteI've been thinking the same way this year. Letting go of those things that stretch me thin and take my focus off the Gift. Blessings to you!
ReplyDeleteI had this conversation with my hubby...just this week. Happy December and Merry Christmas, Laura!
ReplyDelete