For many, the holidays trigger negative emotions, stress and anxiety. There is a focus on lack, loss and increased commercialism that pushes us to feel overwhelmed. We know we shouldn't fall prey to the "should" mentality...but yet we do. Our focus is more on how we are feeling about things than what the true meaning of the season is about. The world, like a door, gives us 2 options- we can either push or pull. Neither option leaves us feeling much different.
God, however, offers us a different choice. We can either stay in struggle or experience peace. We can accept our circumstances and say "it is as good as can be expected" or embrace a "better than expected" joy! It almost feels more like a magic trick because of our deep rooted belief in the lies we have been told for so many years. Yet, when we stop and replace our thoughts and ideas with God's words, change happens.
Take time today to spread good cheer to others and take the focus off of self. Give out smiles! Hand out bible verses or positive words written on paper. Sneak a note, a starbucks card or some other special thing into someone's pocket or purse. Think only good thoughts of others. You never know what they are dealing with.
