A Case For Christmas Every Day

We are officially less than 2 weeks away from Christmas. And if you’re like most people, it might feel like the holidays arrive quicker with every passing year.

Perhaps it’s the eagerness of the retail industry to capitalize on the holiday season and our increased spending that usually comes with it, which could explain why I start seeing ads for Hallmark movies well before most kids have even decided on their Halloween costumes.

Or perhaps it’s our desire for the nostalgia and warmth associated with the holiday season, prompting many of us to engage in Christmas-related activities earlier each year. Personally, I put my tree up before the close of November, which is a big deal considering I grew up in a household where my dad purchased the store display tree on Christmas Eve for almost next to nothing and because he claimed it was the best tree, already trimmed, and fitted with a stand. Although, I’m not sure my mom appreciated that strategy since she was usually the one stuck decorating it.

And of course, let’s not forget the role social media plays in amplifying the early arrival of Christmas, as most platforms showcase electric decorations, festive recipes, themed activities, and other dopamine bombs constantly throughout the year.

Regardless of the reason why it feels like Christmas gets here sooner each year, the main point is not to forget why we celebrate Christmas. Hopefully, I don’t need to explain the reason to you. However, many do need to be reminded to make an active effort to partake in that reason and in the spirit of Christmas itself.

And no, that effort does not entail the perfect Instagram posts. It entails examining the way you choose to treat others, and yourself, and finding a way to do even better. Participating in the true spirit of Christmas embodies values such as kindness, generosity, compassion, and gratitude.

Give back to your community. Spread kindness. Connect with loved ones. Donate to charity. Practice gratitude. Reach out to those in need. These are just a few examples of what we can all do. I’d like to think it’s a longer list than Santa’s naughty list, but that could just be wishful thinking on my part.

So maybe if we can agree on the fact that the perception of Christmas arrives earlier and earlier each year, then we can also agree on the fact that we have no excuse not to love and respect one another on a much more consistent basis throughout the year.

I don’t think anyone wants to live in a world where we only treat each other with kindness one day a year.

On an unrelated note, a quick update on Melanie: She turns 40 this Friday! The average Capuchin monkey might make it to 30 years if all goes well. She has been blessed with a great life. I get frequent updates on how she is faring and am happy to report she is doing extremely well. She has made new friends, enjoys a weekly spa session, and gets plenty of exercise and treats – all the good things I hoped for when I made the difficult decision to part ways a year ago. I’m looking forward to a Zoom session I have planned with her on Thursday to wish her a happy birthday.

Finally, if you’re looking for that perfect last-minute gift or stocking stuffer, I’ve been told that copies of Head Strong, The Awakening and Optimize Your Mindset fit nicely in the average stocking (please forgive the shameless plug)!

Merry Christmas and Stand Strong!

Scott