Here in the US we celebrated Thanksgiving last week. It’s the proverbial bursting of the dam, as holidays festivities begin in full swing – Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanzaa, winter solstice bring with them bright decorations, joy-filled music, menu planning, travel plans – as everyone steps into merry and bright mode. 

Or do they?

As I’ve embarked on the Create and Envision 2020 sessions, it has become obvious from our reflections that the holidays – like life – aren’t that black and white. 

This time of year brings a mixed bag of emotions. 

For some it means:

Navigating uncomfortable dynamics or feelings of un-belongingness with family

Remembering loved ones (including pets) who have passed

Adjusting to life after divorce, shared custody (who gets the kids this year?), empty nesting etc.

So the warm, fuzzy feelings are speckled with moments of darkness and isolation. 

All my life, I tried to fight and avoid these feelings and return as quickly as possible to feelings to joy and gratitude. 

It wasn’t until I began practicing meditation that I realized that honoring and being present with whatever came up was the biggest gift I could give myself. In true form to their name, the emotions would be in “motion” soon enough 🙂 

And it wasn’t until I stepped into leadership positions that I realized that this practice of holding space for myself would equip me to do that for others. 

And that is the best gift you can give anyone this holiday season: your presence: devoid of judgment or expectation, filled with compassion and kindness. 

100% present. 100% you.

Everything that comes up is welcome, and belongs. For you, for them.