November/December 2002 Vol. 4, No. 6

Where is the holiday peace?

As we approach the holidays, we might want to consider whether the phrase "holiday peace" reflects our own experiences of that period of time from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day. Or do we only recall the shoulder-to-shoulder-crowds, credit card bills for over-spending on gifts, the hurrying here and there, indulging in too much food and drink? Indeed, we might want to ask, "Where is the holiday peace?"

While we have time before the full rush of the season is upon us, let’s reflect on past holiday experiences. Perhaps there are some things we can do to help us have the holiday peace we recall from years past. Consider a few questions:

1. What is one cause of seasonal stress you would like to eliminate or change this year?
   
2. Is there something you would really like to add to this year’s celebration?
   
3. Can you identify one reasonable thing you can do on a daily basis to bring more peace into your life?

Share these questions with your family or friends, encouraging one another to find simpler, more positive ways to renew your family with peace.

Peace has been described as an inner state of alert calmness and vibrant tranquility. It is harmony between you and your environment. True peace does not depend on others, or our situation, but rather it is our ability to accept whatever challenges come our way. True inner peace comes with a quiet feeling of power and energy.

How do we achieve this peace? Here are some tips:

• Reflect on what makes you feel peaceful. It could be listening to uplifting music, praying, meditating, gazing at the stars, or walking in nature. Once you can identify peaceful moments, include more of those in your daily life.
  
  
• To abide in peace does not mean rushing all the time. If you find you are always rushing, break that habit. Add more free time to your day. Learn to say no. Keep life simple. Pause to smell the roses or cookies baking in the kitchen.
  
  
• Scatter love and kindness around. Lend a helping hand. Spend some time with someone less fortunate, a shut in perhaps. Share humor and laughter. It’s free.
  
  
• Schedule time to relax. Allow solitude to free the spirit of peace within and around you. Listen to the whisperings of your heart.

During the holiday season give yourself, your family and friends the greatest gift of all: a peaceful YOU.

Adapted from: Holiday Survival Guide 2000, Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service.

Elizabeth Reinsch, LCSW/ACSW
Human Development Specialist
ReinschE@missouri.edu

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		Editor: Roxanne T. Miller MillerRT@missouri.edu