Yes it may be too early to be thinking so much about Christmas (it’s actually early November as I write this) and yet it’s where I’m at.

I’ve always had a sense of excitement and joy over Christmas. I love the lights, the decorations, singing, pretty gift wrapping. And mostly, or more so what I love about it is the energy of ‘coming togetherness’.

No matter where in the world we are, there’s an energy of thinking about family in whatever definition of the word that means most to you. As if we give ourselves permission to pause and let go of any hurt, anger, or frustration we have and simply practice gratitude in the moment. ‘It’s Christmas’.

Whether we do or not, is also beside my point. It’s rather that there are numerous opportunities and reminders to think about others. To send love all over the world. Where possible, physically come together, and where not, to share notes of love and joy and gratitude. A standard that at other times of the year would be met with a multitude of excuses. ‘I can’t make it. I’m busy.’

It’s this simple spirit of giving, of love that warms me up. And I imagine in some ways it’s got to be contagious. Regardless of whether you celebrate Christmas or not, the end of the year itself has a magical pull to it. The closing of a chapter and beginning of something new and fresh. Everyone becoming more social and ‘festive’ in their own ways. Even if that means the final push at work to ‘get everything done’. There’s also this communal sense of relief. Of ‘well done’ ness in the air. Yes, it’s okay to pause. Yes, of course you’ll be focusing on family.

We can make things mean whatever we choose. And yes, I probably have made Christmas for me mean something about sharing love and bringing family together, in whatever way that looks like. And that energy is catchy. And I love that.

So what will you make it mean to you this year?

Or, what will you choose to do differently?

Because yes, it can also bring up plenty of challenges and frustrations. A heightening of emotion as such. It’s what we choose to do with them that matters. And we only ever have control over our own response to things. Change your response, you’ll change your outcome. So if you’re wanting to feel more in control of your experience of the end of the year, then start focusing on your response.

How will you choose to respond today?

And if you choose to sprinkle a little joy, a little carolling, gratitude, love, or to simply let go of what is no longer serving you, know that I’m right there with you (and so many others are too), magnifying that energy.

Spread the Christmas cheer and share this post with someone in your life today!