I wrap Christmas presents for everyone in our family, including myself, each year. I have always loved the drama of unveiling every thoughtful surprise. But this year, I have taken my pile out of the mix and I have already warned my kids that in order to help his friends, the polar bears, Santa is trying hard to lighten his load. Mommy is willing to take the hit, but their wide eyes told me that they, at 5 and 7, were not quite willing to chuck their dreams out of his red velvet sack if there was any way to avoid such a sacrifice.
But for the first time in 41 years, giving up wanting more, does not feel like a sacrifice. It just feels like it makes sense. Because what I really want for Christmas this year doesn't fit in a box. My husband can't chase it down in a store. My family can't stuff it in my stocking. It is too precious, too elusive, impossible to buy at any price.
"What is it?" you ask. "I want some too," you might think. I bet you do. Because what I covet more than anything I can imagine is Time. Time to draw pictures. Time for lunch with a friend. Time for a book by the fire. Time to bake cookies. Time to actually sign my holiday cards with a meaningful greeting to my favorite aunt. Time to surf. Time to think. Time to breathe.
In fact, I would give up anything material to have it.
So why does this precious gift elude me? What have I done to so thoroughly banish the simple moments from my life? Why am I spread so thin and always in a rush, or worse running behind the train that has already left the station?
I do know that the pipeline of what comes at me everyday is spitting out far more demand for my response than I can physically address. Screens of emails, voicemails on the mobile and home phones, teachers, teams, family, friends, fundraising, chores, children and husband create a cacaphony of communications that are moving many of us into an unsustainable stratosphere of exhaustion.
So what do we do? How long can we continue to bear the stress, the pull, the guilt for never quite getting everything accomplished that each shiny new day demands? I say, simplify. Pull back a bit. Embrace imperfection. Learn to say no.
Is it possible that what we have is enough, or even.........more than enough?
My new mantra is, "Less is the New More." I repeat it again and again as I endeavor to pare down, focus, enjoy, treasure what is most dear. By cutting back, by weeding out, by narrowing our choices, we begin the journey of respecting a life that is driven by need rather than greed. Just that one simple step of clarity can propel us all toward a future where our values align with our planet, our daily decisions consider the future and our priorities extend far beyond ourselves.
In order to sustain and be viable parents, we must slow down. We must cease the chase and zero in on what matters, what brings happiness and what is essential. The noise we create around ourselves is the pollution of our lives, and I endeavor to be a greener mom in 2008 by emitting so much less and savoring so much more. That is my gift to myself, and a friendly reminder is my gift to you! Happy Holidays!