Embracing the Holiday Spirit: Memories, Joy, and Imperfection

This year, as I unpacked my Christmas tree, I reacquainted myself with the memories that each ornament carries. Bulbs reflect trips I’ve taken–from Jamaica to Australia. Cute Hallmark ornaments remind me of my mother-in-love, who gifted one each year. Some have years written on them, while others have homemade tags to remind me of the giver. Ornament exchanges, secret Santas, and cherished mementos from each year make the Christmas tree sparkle with stories. 

My Christmas tree embodies some of the best parts of my life, and looking at it truly brings me cheer. Similarly, the best parts of me come alive when I’m with my grandson. I am the most playful and carefree in his presence. Patience, gentleness, and kindness naturally surface when I am with him. When he experiences big feelings and flings himself on the floor, I can be the master distractor. I like who I am when I am with him: happy, positive, loving, and fun. 

Embracing Imperfection

Yet, even as I celebrate these wonderful experiences, I am reminded that the full human experience includes moments of sadness, frustration, and fatigue. As I write, I pause to blow my nose, battling a persistent and annoying cold. Sometimes I’m not operating at 100%, and that’s okay. I’m not always kind or thoughtful. There are days I don’t feel like being fun or adventurous. I also love basking in the quiet, being alone, and indulging in lazily watching Christmas movies. 

During the holiday season, it is easy to feel the weight of expectation–as though we’re supposed to live inside a Norman Rockwell painting. As the Christmas carols play, we may feel obligated to be perpetually merry and bright. Yet, I’m reminded of a pregnant woman riding on a donkey and a family with no place to stay. While their story included angels lighting up the night sky and shepherds visiting in awe, I’m sure it wasn’t picturesque. The human experience is a canvas painted with every type of brush stroke and color. 

So, no matter what your day looks like as you read this or which version of yourself shows up, embrace it fully. The joy and holiday cheer, as well as the hustle and bustle, are part of the beauty. Moments spent with family and those cherished alone can both make the season bright and meaninful. I hope to savor it all.