Recognized Symbol

"Christmas is like candy; it slowly melts in your mouth sweetening

every taste bud, making you wish it could last forever."

Richelle Goodrich

Over the years, holidays, tend to shift. Location is altered, attendance fluctuates, and gifts tend to be altered by both time and space. So many things change, but the candy cane remains a highly recognized symbol. It seems we are never too old to experience the taste of peppermint. 

During these times, some desperately try to recreate childhood joy while others are determined to overcome the drama still wedged in their hearts. When we gather with others, however, highlighted by Christmas Carols, laughter, and good cheer, the innocence of childhood wonder creeps into our hearts.

Let's tickle the toes of children, and listen to the tales of the past. Delight in the decorations and feast upon the food. But never, ever, ignore the pleas of the heart. When it is time to leave, do so. If you must cry, do not be ashamed. When time seems to stand still, find a candy cane to replenish sweetness in the soul.

Remembering ...

"The effects of loss are acute, and unique to each individual.

Not everyone mourns in the same way."

Richelle E. Goodrich

There are numerous ways to mourn and some prefer to avoid all aspects of death and dying.  Obviously, we can choose the way we want to react; however, some effort of respect and gratitude aught to be offered whether great or small.

For all of the young who gave up life in war, and for all of the life time soldiers who were killed, in my heart I feel respect and gratitude.  As of yet, however, I do not understand the overall benefits of war.  The wars in our own country need to be addressed:  racism; poverty; disease; mental illness; drugs to mention just a few.

Each one of us has a particular reason for living and a gift to be shared.  So I honor all who die no matter the cause.  To give respect as respect is due, we can save our countries money, recognize all as brothers and sisters, and share our gifts.  Today, I remember those who have passed and I have hope for those who still live.

 

Governed to Keep Safe

 

"Disappointment is really just a term for 

our refusal to look on the bright side."

Richelle E. Goodrich

The passing holiday may have altered our sense of calm and connection, just as the approaching holidays tend to disrupt our harmony.  This year, especially, may push us to the end of our patience by the demands of altering traditions and practices.

We know we are headed into altered schedules so it is important to plan now, to put safeguards in place to allow our passage through these difficult times to unfold smoothly.  We can implement our structure, we can lace it with private moments for prayer or meditation.  We can mentally prepare ourselves for the let down we are bound to experience.

The importance is to reinforce safety for all so that we may celebrate future  holidays with all family members still present.  To alter our family gatherings for the approaching holiday, knowing it is governed to keep us safe, can be earmarked by new traditions for mutual support, transition, and enhanced dreams to come.

Make Life Lighter!

"A daily dose of daydreaming heals the heart,

soothes the soul, and strengthens the imagination."

Richelle E. Goodrich

Sleep labs have studied the impact dreams have upon the body.  The body reacts in numerous ways to a variety of situations.  If we dream we are an athlete and see ourselves running a 5k our body doesn't know we are not actually moving.  When we dream of a terrible thing, even though it is imaginary, the body clenches with fear.  

The same is true if we imagine we are on top of a mountain, breathing fresh air in and stress out.  The body relaxes assuming we are indeed up on the mountain.  Faced with a least favorite chore, we can visualize ourselves singing, happily doing the deed and completing the task in record time.  Our body reacts to our thoughts.

It is therefore important to us to carve out time for meditation, daydreaming or visualization.  It will lift our moods and elevate our life experience.  We attract what we think, so why not focus on the good and let it draw more goodness into our life.  Try it, you just might love it!