When the world shut down, and we went into isolation in early 2020, we all wondered when we would be able to get back to normal. Then life shifted to thoughts that we just had to make adjustments such as delaying plans until after the vaccine was available. A new version of "normal." Again, more protocol changes to accommodate co-mingling with populations not vaccinated. A new version of "normal." Faced with a new strain of the virus, new precautions were put into place. A new version of "normal."
It's time to "Live out of your imagination, not your history," as Stephen R. Covey advises us.
We have come to reimagine how we celebrate life during this global pandemic. The good news is that where we would not have physically been able to attend previously, it's now possible because of the internet. And not just work events, family gatherings, and casual catch-up over tea are held over the internet as well.
Over the years, your unique holiday style has evolved from that of a child waiting up for Santa or playing Dreidel games. Now you are the hos of a fabulous feast and being known for your instincts of choosing just the right gift for everyone on your list.
Pretend you are a kid again. What was your most anticipated holiday event? What is your favorite memory? How can you reimagine it for today? Bring back that magic! I propose that instead of recreating your previous traditions, invent new ones. Build on past memories to design something uniquely your own.
Do you have a favorite holiday classic movie? Some folks even hold holiday classic movie marathons. What if, rather than watching "A Christmas Carol," create your own production with items you have around the house as props and have family members of various generations update the dialogue? Who knows? You just may have a budding Steven Spielberg or Sofia Coppola in your midst!
Music lifts everyone's spirit and brings joy to us all. I loved caroling door to door as a kid (and still love singing any chance I get). What if you organized a sing-along for the neighborhood? Choose a date where you all gather at the end of your driveway or wherever you can gather safely to raise your voices in song. Ask for song suggestions that are universally recognizable. I'm pretty sure that not everyone will know "Good King Wenceslas," but just about everyone will know "Jingle Bells." You get the idea.
Did the neighborhood decorate outside as well as inside for the holidays? Did you have snowman-making contests? Yes, I know this is a very ambitious suggestion; however, I know some folks have a passion for outdoor decorating, and it isn't a holiday without a tableau somewhere on their property. Invite everyone to bring their creativity to create a scene from a favorite holiday classic and then designate a time (3-day weekend?) where the community at large is invited to drive by their feats of wonder. Perhaps take donations for a local charity so that everyone can come away filled with holiday spirit after witnessing a bit of holiday magic.
What am I missing?
Presents! "Christmas won't be Christmas without any presents," Jo says in that epic novel "Little Women." And I'm all for presents, so let's reimagine the way we approach gifts this year.
I offer for your consideration: Caring & Sharing Gift Exchange
No worrying that it will be going back to the store on Jan 2. No sizes to remember, favorite color or heaven forbid, allergies to consider.
Spark your imagination and creativity by considering what those near and dear (and you!) really could use this year in the areas of:
Time: This could include a booklet/gift certificate with specific time availability for a friendly catch-up, a sympathetic ear, babysitting, or whatever you have listed that the recipient may request from you.
Muscle: Yes, I did say muscle. There are times when the spirit is willing, but the flesh is not equipped to do the job. It could be that you help weed the garden, build a fence, or rearrange the furniture. It could be that you need someone with specific agility to reach a lightbulb in a ceiling fixture or some task that you'd appreciate someone else tackling for you.
Expertise: If your bliss is all things kitchen-related, then think about offering a special dinner delivered, or baked treats, perhaps freezer meals. If you are a genius with a needle and thread (or needles and yarn), you could offer a hand-crafted item from your inventory. My hand-crafted something would be in the line of a journal with a collaged journal cover or a beaded bracelet.
It's up to you what you want to share. The idea is that instead of things, the magic of YOU is the best item you can share.
As you gather together at this time of year, I hope you can create magic for yourself and your loved ones making new memories and creating new traditions.
It's your story to tell, and you are the only one who unleashes the magic of your story and living your life on purpose and how you shine!
Unleash and Reimagine Holiday Magic
RHG MagazineTM - November 2021 © All rights reserved.