How might you make this season more meaning-filled for you and your loved ones?
We celebrate this time of year for many reasons in many ways … the “miracle oil” of Chanukah, the “first fruits” of Kwanzaa, the “emannuel” of Christmas, and the “turning point” of Winter Solstice. However you mark the season, all of us share one thing in common … we will soon turn our calendars to a new year.
As I’ve done before, I recommend that you use this occasion to reflect on the past twelve months and anticipate the year ahead. This time, however, I encourage you to act on your assessment and intentions in a particular way.
Looking back on 2023 …
Ø Thank someone. Acknowledge that one person you may have taken for granted this past year. Let them know how much you appreciate them and what they’ve done for you. Express gratitude and discover the fullness of your own life.
Ø Forgive someone. Accept the one individual who hurt you in some way. Choose forgiveness over anger and retribution. Pardon them for being like you … both human and fallible. Let go of anger and experience the freedom you can create for yourself.
Ø Congratulate someone. Remember the one person you envied for what they accomplished or acquired this past year? Replace your jealousy with goodwill and best wishes. Find joy in the success of others and realize the magnificence of your own being.
And, looking forward to 2024 …
Ø Encourage someone. Find that one person who seeks your inspiration and sense of hope. Empower their imagination. Help them rediscover their purpose and passion for life and, in doing so, release the power of your own dreams.
Ø Challenge someone. Approach that one person in your life who will benefit from your confrontation. Help them see that their negative comments or self-defeating behaviors do not serve them. Offering them both your constructive candor and support, will keep you honest with yourself.
Ø Follow someone. (And, I don’t mean stalking.) Who deserves your admiration? Observe them and choose to listen to them. Be intentional about learning from them. Humble your self and you will soon become the leader you were meant to be.
However you mark this season, I am fairly certain that if you offer the gift of your being to six other people, you will bring deeper joy, hope and peace to the lives of seven individuals.
Wishing you and your loved ones a meaning-filled holiday season!
Terry L. Poling
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