That "C" word....

Dearest,

How is this moment for you? How have the people around you been this week? Did you undertake any acts of kindness to them - big or small? I know random acts of kindness are normally directed to strangers, which is wonderful, but what if this week we directed them to those we share a space with, whether that is work or home.

The "C" word has been appearing in more conversations recently. This week the conversation, after the "C" word was followed with dread. This was a pattern that got repeated in multiple conversations. The "C" word and then various forms of stress, dread and overwhelm. That "C" word was Christmas.

The cynical part of me, that flows through my veins at a higher concentration than is probably healthy or recommended, see Christmas as follows;

• A religious holiday (read some guy convincing you that it's all your fault and eternal hell awaits you for just being born - all in the glorious aim for them to control and accumulate ridiculous wealth)

• Hijacked by marketers (read some guy convincing you that you aren't good enough unless you purchase more shit for everyone you could possibly think of, because that's what kind and good people do if they want to be worthy)

• And enforced on you whether you want it or not, making a walk in nature the only safe spot to be (unless someone has been convinced that their fur baby really does need reindeer antlers and a flashing coat with bells) #youdoyou.

  
  

You'd think after that tirade that I was a grinch but you would be mistaken. The best thing about being human (and potentially the worst) is perspective. So, while the religious and the marketers (pretty sure they are closely related) are trying to convince us of our shortfalls, we've quietly created our own "Christmas".

Yes, there are Santa sacks - filled with special but ultimately practical things that will be used throughout the year or prompt fantastic adventures. I still get so excited that a 5am wake up isn't unusual (yes condolences to my long suffering whānau).

Yes, there is still the tree and decorations - they go up on 1st December and are removed by the 28th.

Yes, there is food - chosen and prepared by us all (and not just me chained to the kitchen by some archaic belief that if food isn't plentiful and perfect I have failed as a woman). But the most precious aspect of our Christmas is whānau, he tāngata. We spend time together, we remember loved ones, those that are with us and those who we can no longer embrace. For me anyway, that is my cherished version of Christmas.

What's your most precious aspect of this holiday season? If you are filled with dread or stress I hope you can identify a little piece of joy. A sparkle. A glimmer. And remember that a walk in nature always provides the opportunity to experience awe - even if a faux reindeer crosses your path!

Take care Dearest - of yourself, of others, of your thoughts, of your actions and of our beautiful world.

You are worthy - always

Ngā manaakitanga xx