It’s Christmas once again. Colorful lights can be seen around. There are Christmas parties everywhere. Many people are busy buying and giving Christmas presents. With consumerism at its highest peak, how can we still truly enjoy the spirit of Christmas? Although Christmas is all about giving, it is not so much about the presents but rather the meaning behind the presents. It is more than just the festivities, parties and the reunions. Instead, it is all about family and togetherness. However, being together with loved ones is not enough. Because Christmas is not just a season but a state of mind. It is a chance to be at peace with oneself and others. That’s why it is important to be letting go this Christmas Season. Only by letting go will we be able to truly appreciate and enjoy the true spirit of Christmas.
What do we need to let go?
1.Expectations
What gifts are you expecting to receive this Christmas? Are you waiting for someone? Are you looking forward to the Christmas festivities? You will have a very joyous Christmas if all your expectations are met. But, what if it does not? Will you let it spoil your holidays?
You see, expectations differ from one person to another. Your expectations are different from the other person. Chances are, your ideal perfect holiday experience or gift is different from your loved ones. For one, all of us have different love languages. It is not someone else’s fault that your expectations are not met. It’s not their problem. It’s yours. You just have to learn to deal with it. Second, accept the fact that we cannot control others. The only thing that we can control is how we react to certain situations. Understand this and learn to take hold of your emotions.
2.Grudges
Somebody criticized you. Your partner left you or maybe you have had a traumatic experience. These wounds can be very painful and can stay for a long time. However, if you won’t learn to forgive; you will only succeed in hurting yourself. The other person may simply not care or may not be even aware that you have been hurt by their actions. The peace of mind that you have been longing for can only be possible by letting go because forgiveness can lead to emotional, physical and spiritual well-being. You are doing it for yourself not for others. Just remember that forgiveness does not necessarily mean forgetting or reconciliation with the person that harmed you. It only means moving on with your life.
3. Past
Past is past. Period. There is nothing that we can do to undo it. The only thing that we can do is to learn from it. In this way, you can avoid repeating the same mistake in the future. Holding on to our past can only hold us back. Healing can only come if we let go of the past.
4.Unnecessary Spending
The Christmas season is not a ticket to splurge, especially if you cannot afford something. Do not put yourself in credit card debt just because it is Christmas. Learn to stick to your budget. That reward to yourself can be given anytime. It does not have to be Christmas. Practice delayed gratification. And don’t try to impress others with extravagant gifts. You can’t buy love.
5. Worries
Yes, all of us have problems. But nothing will come out of it if we continue worrying about them. No one knows what the future will bring. We just have to have faith and belief in ourselves.
Spend this holiday season with people that are dear to you. Let go of all those things that are weighing you down. Practice letting go this Christmas season.
Have a happy and blessed Christmas everyone!
Feature Photo by Nicole Michalou from Pexels