Freaking Out At Christmas: A Sure Cure

Written by Jen Saturday, 20 December 2008 18:35

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How many people are experiencing quickened heart beats this time of year? It's either the overdose of caffeine, loud Christmas carols, or over-the-top social schedule (more often of my children these days) that does it to me every time. My entire being screams for quiet.

And this is exactly what we all need to give ourselves, right about now.

Amidst the shopping and baking and worrying about everything from how to handle undesirable family situations to how to pay the bills, not to mention that laundry list of tasks to be completed, just stop.

Consider that what you're doing may not be the best way to celebrate the birth of Christ.

Since I am infamous in family circles for my high-strung tendencies (a nice way to say I'm a little nuts), I have to work extra hard at calming my inner maniac, particularly at this time of the year. Yet all of us-even those who rarely freak out-can learn from my very wise friend's even wiser mother.

This lady often tells her family to do as the Blessed Mother, who "treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart" (Luke 2:19).

Try it. When you're overwhelmed, when you're stressed, when you're tempted to do, say, think or write something inappropriate, just stop and ponder. Even if it's just for five minutes, be quiet. No sleeping, reading or other distraction. Just be alone and quiet.

You just might be amazed at what you hear and feel in the stillness. Maybe you'll be moved to reach out and do something unscheduled and wonderful for someone else. Maybe you'll wear a smile instead of worry lines. Maybe you'll be able to be joyful when you didn't think it possible. Maybe, like Mary, you'll know that you don't have to have the answers, just faith.

Now there's something we can all ponder, treasure, and hold in our hearts.

May your Christmas be blessed and peace-filled.