How many times in the past week have you heard, or even said, “There’s so much to do!”
Right. Me too. That’s why today, I’m letting you off the hook. And it’s all because of Arthur Ashe.
What does this famous tennis star have to do with holidays? Read on, Word Nerds.
On Thanksgiving morning this year, my family donned running shoes and turkey hats and headed down to the local Turkey Trot. Eleven members of the immediate and extended family ran, including a nephew I never thought would voluntarily tackle a 5K. Sadly, that eleven didn’t include me, one of the most enthusiastic runners in the clan. I’ve been nursing a hip injury since October and was not in shape to run the 10K I signed up for. Big disappointment, as I’d been looking forward to racing this new distance.
As I stood at the bottom of a hill on the course, waiting for runners to go by, I thought of a quote I found years ago, when I was looking for inspiration for the high school cross country team I coached. It came from Arthur Ashe, famous athlete and leader:
I don’t know the context for this this statement by Ashe, but I applied it that morning on the Turkey Trot course. I couldn’t run, but I took photos and cheered, and the smiles I received from family and strangers made up for my disappointment.
Now, in December, I’m applying it to Christmas. I’m using what I have (For me, that’s energy level. For someone else, it might be time or money.) and doing what I can for holiday preparation and gift giving. And that’s enough. If I don’t put up all the lights and garland from last year, it’s okay. If I don’t make all the recipes from previous holidays, we will live. Maybe someone else will prepare the cherry cheese pie this year. (Hint, hint!)
For every no I say to decorations, cookies, and invitations, I allow myself a yes to the things I value most about the holidays. That includes connecting with family and friends, decorating the house with lights to cheer me on dark winter days, and indulging in beautiful seasonal music. At a time when many have abandoned sending holiday cards, I still enjoy sending out a family photo and brief update. And I look forward to receiving the same from friends and family who are willing to share. For those who have decided the annual card ritual is too expensive or time consuming, I get that too. No judgement here. We are all doing what we can to enjoy the season.
This year, I’m paring down holiday tasks to those that allow me to spread joy without becoming overwhelmed. I hope you find that precious balance as well.
If you need more reasons to give yourself grace this season, read my thoughts on Celebrating a “scuffed” Christmas, or my Permission to simplify Christmas from years past.
For tips on forgiveness and dealing with family at the holidays, check out Kelly Corrigan’s essay
How do you stay sane during the holidays! Comment and let us know.
Happy holidays, and remember to:
Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.
Arthur Ashe
Thanks for getting nerdy with me!
