24 Dec Season of joy: noticing the moment

This year seems to have gone quickly. Whether it’s because I’m getting older or that a lot has happened this year, I don’t know. But as Einstein said, time is relative.

I can remember moments where I wished they would last a little longer, such as being with my family on holiday or the evening’s spent with my wife having dinner together or just lying in bed chatting. These moments are exceptional.  Like today seeing my daughter stealthily getting taller, as it seems, in front of my eyes. It’s noticing these moments, which once time has distracted us with other things in life, they are gone forever.

At Christmas, we mostly focus on getting the presents for everyone, buying the food for the Christmas meal and Boxing Day to making sure everyone is happy, which is a tall order. Or we get too drunk, argue about the small stuff, becoming distracted from the moments of joy.

This moment at Christmas

So this Christmas, take a moment to notice the joyful moments that can pass by in a breath. Look around you, slow down time, notice the sparkling gestures from your partner and family. Be gracious, as it’s about giving as well as receiving, so have fun, notice the laughter, the love, the smiles, the warmth, the things you might not have seen the rest of the year.

Most of all, be generous with your time, your partner and your family.

Have a cheerful Christmas with your partner and family.  I hope it’s a beautiful time for you all.  See you in the New Year!

Photo by Les Anderson