Given the current climate of our country, the holidays couldn’t come at a better time. I’m certainly looking forward to them, but maybe that’s because I haven’t even dealt with the frustration of a good, old-fashioned political debate on Facebook. It’s been a challenging year. We’ve seen a heated presidential election, people protesting the results, and people protesting the protesters. That’s a lot of protesting (and a lot of words that begin with the letter “p”).
If you’re like me, you probably have friends and family on both sides of the spectrum. And maybe you’re dreading the holiday season. But instead of looking to simply survive the holidays with your family, why not aim to thrive? As you prepare your new scheme to steal the remote from your father-in-law as he dozes off in his recliner or avoid those Lifetime Christmas movie marathons that all seem to have the same ending, here are 5 tips to help your family thrive this holiday season.
- Forgiveness goes a long way. One of the most humbling things to do is ask for forgiveness. No one likes to admit when they’re wrong. Likewise, it’s never easy to forgive someone, especially a family member, who hurt you. Make this year different. If there’s a lingering grudge or hurt in your family, maybe it’s time to seek the power of forgiveness.
- Play like a champion. If you decide to take time off from work this holiday season, it can be tempting to waste it away on the couch. Why not get out of the house and play instead? Throw the football around. Dust off one of the board games collecting dust in your hall closet. Or if you live somewhere with snow, have a snowball fight. Just remember that it’s ok if you don’t win every round of Scattergories.
- Share those old family stories. You remember that time your uncles broke the public bench they were sitting on during their trip to Vermont? It’s still funny today. Share those stories and laugh. Nothing makes for a more joyful time during family dinner than a room full of chuckles.
- Listen. While you’re caught up telling those hilarious stories, don’t forget to listen to those of others. Nothing can kill the mood at the dinner table more than constantly interrupting and trying to one-up another family member. Listen first, and allow everyone to share his or her story.
- Pray as a family. Above all else, take some time to pray together as a family. Thank God for the food on your table, pray for those who go without, and offer up the true intentions of each family member’s heart. Nothing can be more unifying than coming together in prayer. And you’ll set a great example for the kids.
Whether you’re carving the Thanksgiving turkey, rockin’ around the Christmas tree, or shopping for the perfect gift, remember that the most important gift you can give your family is joy. It’s not just something we sing about. It truly is what the holiday season is all about. And without a doubt, we need it this year.
Question: What tips do you have to thrive this holiday season? (Share your thoughts and inspire others in the comments below.)
