Holidays with family, friends, and extended family/friends can quickly escalate into a Holler Day. Thanksgiving or any holiday can be really stressful leading up to the gathering. There are a few things we can do to prepare our hearts and minds beforehand.
- Is there someone you need to forgive or something you need to let go? Unforgiveness, guilt, shame, and selfishness are things WE have control over. Take care of it today or talk to someone about those feelings to get to the root of the problem.
- Be present and enjoy the moment. Put down the iPad, iPhone, Kindle, and video game controller. Pick up a board game, dominoes, or some cards. If you are bored, DON'T tune out! Engage others by taking a walk together, start a new family tradition, or just sit down with the kids and have nonsensical talks about Thor and Disney Junior.
- Listen, actually listen, to others as they speak. Don't just wait for your turn to talk.
- When conflict arises (not if, but when), realize that your priority is to love that person (even if they have no idea what they are talking about) before you argue. Engage the person instead of attacking their stance on something.
- Serve - This is not for the cooks and cleaners, but for the kids and uncles and brothers that eat, watch tv, and then sleep. Don't let this great day slip by without showing your thanks by serving.
I am really looking forward to Thanksgiving and I hope it is one to remember for years to come, for the right reasons that is. Happy Thanksgiving!
