Once in a while I hear people announce that they are “finished” with their Christmas shopping and gift preparations so now they can enjoy the holidays. There are lots of issues playing out here such as trying to focus on the spiritual rather than commercial, completing a big task, and relief that it’s no longer necessary to fight the crowds at the stores. (Have you seen crowds this year at stores? I have not.)
The other day I was working in my “Christmas shop” down in the basement. Candy jars, blankets, and other homemade Christmas gifts surrounded me. For a minute I felt a little overwhelmed when I realized that I was running out of time to finish everything. Then I remembered how much I really enjoy making gifts; I remembered that I had chosen simpler gifts this year on purpose so I could enjoy the making of them in spare minutes. Most gifts I can complete in 15 minutes or less.
I have decided that it’s most important to enjoy the process. If I don’t get it all “done” by December 10th, all well. And good job to those who do “finish” Christmas early. I mean to enjoy every minute of the season, “finished” or not.
I decided that the baking is what is stressing me out this year. I may not bake cookies for all of the neighbors. A friend of mine in Arizona assembled beautiful plates of Christmas goodies using an assortment of store-bought cookies and candies. Perhaps I’ll do that. But I am NOT going to get stressed out over something like a plate of cookies. Amen.