Why I Won’t Be Sending Christmas Cards This Year

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

6 comments:

  1. 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.

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  2. My the Lord Bless you and your family with Health and joy this beautiful season.

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  3. Working 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

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  4. This 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.

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  5. I'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!

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  6. I had this conversation with my hubby...just this week. Happy December and Merry Christmas, Laura!

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