5 Simple Things

With the holiday season underway, I wanted to share five things with you that my students remind me constantly to follow. Furthermore, when moving forward from loss, these are good things to consider.

Be patient -  Many of us are in a rush this season between functions, work, and even gatherings with loved ones that we lose sight of the present moment. There is nothing wrong with slowing down and taking each moment as it comes. There is nothing cliché about this concept, just that when we rush through life we miss those experiences that matter the most.

Be kind – How many times have we heard this from our parents when we were little kids playing with others? Better yet, how many times have you heard be nice to your brother or sister? Siblings aside, this is a season not based on hate but on love and giving. Swearing at others, putting people down, bullying, or as I saw firsthand this morning – screaming and grunting at your children in a parking lot because they forget their book bag is not going to serve any purpose. Be patient and be kind to those around you.  Kindness is contagious.

Listen – In Acupuncture school, I remember comparing our ears to our mouth. As you may be aware, we have two ears and one mouth. Therefore, as explained to me, if God wanted us to talk more, the numbers would be reversed , ie we would have two mouths. That is not the case, so biologically speaking we are designed to listen first and speak second. How many of you listen? Seriously though, there is something said for taking a step back, to truly hear what others are saying. We can listen long enough to put our personal agenda’s aside and when we do that, you might be amazed at what you learn.

Have fun/Laugh  – I am going to combine four and five simply because from my perspective they are one in the same. We can’t go through this season in such a serious state where we lose sight to the theme of reuniting with family and friends, and or developing new relationships. When you get together with other’s it shouldn’t be a gloomy period but one of harmonious activities and bonding. There is nothing wrong with laughing, enjoying the moments and the company you keep. Especially for those that have experienced loss, part of moving forward is smiling again and laughing.   

To recap; be patient, be kind, listen, have fun, and laugh this holiday season. It will make the time more rewarding and worthwhile. Furthermore, you might find yourself a happier person and those around you as well. If you enjoy yourself enough, maybe your New Year’s resolution will be to embrace these concepts in the year ahead.