Happy December! The final month of this unusual and challenging year begins tomorrow. For some it has been devastating because of the loss of a loved one, for others the loss of a job or a business, all contributing to the challenges presented by the Pandemic. To say the least it has been overwhelming.
Our little voice asks: “Will I ever recover?”
The answer is yes! We know because when we think about the many adjustments we had to make; somehow we’ve made them work. Changes in lifestyles, priorities, relationships and the lens with which we view challenges all got adjusted. How we socialize and communicate were also a factor. Many are happy to see 2020 go away but as we look back in future years there may be some precious lessons learned. These lessons are gifts to all of us.
Isn’t social distancing appropriate to continue in public? And while working from home is different, it may have brought some unexpected advantages. We learned to honor and value many professions that were often overlooked. Medical personnel, first responders, truckers, teachers, grocery store employees and others now get the recognition they have always deserved. We learned to function as a team, accept each person’s contribution and show appreciation for much that we once took for granted.
As the holidays approach in the coming weeks, many will think of gifts to purchase for loved ones. December’s theme for Positive Living is about gifts that don’t come in wrapped packages, such as the gift of time, the gift of friendship, the gift of health and the gift of family. As parents you have the opportunity to model the gifts of respect and kindness through your actions.
Be mindful of instances of where you can help to bring up others, be generous in offering genuine praise and encouragement and sincerely listen with understanding and empathy as these are all gifts we can freely give to others.
While the holidays may trigger a need in us to purchase gifts, let’s not forget the many blessings we already have to share. And please remember to follow our journey through December on our Facebook Page.
Give from the heart,
Lora
