After last week's Say Yes episode, here's a bit of balance, some of the ways in which saying no can aid in our spiritual lives, help us avoid burnout, and lead to the peaceful Christmas and faith lives our souls are longing for. Here are some resources I hope will help you to explore this topic in a deeper way for yourself. I hope you and yours have a beautiful, simple, blessed and Merry Christmas!
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1. In modeling saying no to perfectionism, I've left in the tap tap tap percussive sounds of my dog, Bailey, in this week's episode. I'm hoping it is a happy addition to Peter Vaughan-Vail's beautiful harp music, and I thank Peter (and Bailey) as always for their help.
2. 6 Things You Can Say No To This Holiday Season, by Shannon Martin
3. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (original 1966 tv special)
4. Journal prompts:
What is a life-giving practice for me in this holiday season?
What traditional practices feel more like work and less like joy?
How can I cultivate quiet and peace in order to hear from God in this season?
5. Song: Stille Nacht, by The King's Singers
6. Song: Silent Night (Holding Us Now), by Christy Nockels
7. 4 Ways to Reduce Holiday Stress Caused by Perfectionism, by Elizabeth Scott for verywellmind.com
