Peace Lives Here

Dec 12

We are now smack in the middle of the Christmas Season with all the rushing around to do extra shopping, gift wrapping, hosting or attending parties and lots of other things above our normal activities. This hectic pace can drain a person, making them feel anxious and overwhelmed. Yet when we think of Christmas, what word comes to mind? Your first thought might be Jesus, but what is another word that is most often thought of this time of year? PEACE! I think of the phrase, Peace on Earth, Good Will Towards Men.

If you know anything about the Enneagram, you will understand when I tell you I am a 9 — the Peacemaker. I yearn for peace in every situation. I crave quiet, peaceful moments so this time of year can be difficult for me. You too, may feel like this season of peace is anything but.

Many studies suggest that we should base our lifestyle habits according to the seasons. We are headed towards the winter solstice — shortest day of the year and first day of winter. While nature is slowing down and going into its hibernation, we are doing the opposite. I believe this isn’t how our bodies were designed and that instead of increasing activities now we should be in a more reflective, slowing down and going inward state. Not doing so seems wrong to me, and I believe it can take its toll on us. No wonder we all feel anxious and overwhelmed during this season of peace and joy.

So what can we do to bring about peace in our lives during such a busy and hectic season? We know the story of Jesus’ birth and how there was no room for Mary and Joseph at the Inn. Let’s not be the Inn keeper, saying there is no room left for peace at this time of year. We need to make room for it at all costs. This means purposely choosing to make time for it.

Peace is critical to our well being and we need to do what’s necessary to obtain it - and especially at this time.

The good news is that just ten minutes or so a day can make all the difference. One suggestion is to spend time with yourself in prayer or meditation without any screens or distractions. Just you sitting quietly for a short time before you start your day, or if it works better, at night before you go to bed. This alone will work like magic to restore frazzled nerves.

Another suggestion is to spend time in nature. No earbuds or looking at your phone allowed, just you and nature. Notice the leaves blowing off the trees or the cool wind brushing against your skin. Try not to think of all you have to do, but rather enjoy all of the sensations the walk itself brings. This might be a good time to think of all the good in your life, and to give thanks for it. Not only is the walk good for you physically, it is good for your spiritual and emotional health as well.

If you can’t get out and walk, maybe take time to birdwatch from inside your house. Place a feeder just outside your window. Just noticing and really watching these beautiful little creatures can bring peace and joy to a soul. If you find your mind going to your to-do lists, kindly remind yourself that this isn’t the time, and go back to the birdwatching. Sounds hokey? Maybe, but try it and you’ll see how relaxing it is if you will give into it.

Journaling or doodling makes me relaxed and happy. It definitely helps to still the mind. Or another suggestion, is to take a long, warm bath. But you know yourself — you do what brings peace and relaxation to your heart and life. It doesn’t matter what you do as much as just choosing something and then make the time for doing it.

If we are at peace, the bad drivers or long lines or endless to-do lists won’t seem as bad. So, unlike the Inn Keeper, let’s make room and invite peace into our hearts and lives by choosing to do what’s necessary to cultivate it. It is the best gift we can give ourselves.

It’s really the simplest of things that make all the difference.

Sending my best,

Connie