Thanksgiving and Christmas

Around this time of year I begin to hear two things predominantly from people in all areas of life.

First: "I'm not ready for Christmas."

Second: "I hate the holidays its too commercial."

These statements are my biggest pet peeves during the holidays because people let these thoughts and concerns define Thanksgiving and Christmas. I will never understand those who say, "I am not ready for Christmas." I do understand that they look at their pocketbook, travel plans, presents to buy, among other things and get stressed out over how much they NEED to do. Lets be honest people, do we need to stress about these things? Thanksgiving is a day of......hmmm craziness....THANKSGIVING! This holiday has become more about food, football, and shopping preparations. (Yes I love to watch football on this day but it is out of thanksgiving........I can't watch the Lions any other time of year).

The holidays are not about this stuff. We need to redefine the holidays this season and CHOOSE to not get stressed out. The reason for the season is too important to let stress and commercialism ruin it. How do you do this?

1) Set aside time each day to read God's word, after all Jesus is the reason for the season.
2) Be thankful everyday! Not just on Thanksgiving.
3) If you don't have what you want, start wanting what you have.
4) Don't go shopping on Black Friday.
5) If stress starts to surface..................STOP! (at least temporarly, it ain't worth the stress).
6) Choose to eliminate stress and commercialism.
7) BUDGET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
8) Don't fear family, embrace and love family (thats what they are there for).
9) Listen to Christmas music!
10) KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID! Just have Fun!

Enjoy the holidays everyone and listen to Linus:

Charlie Brown Christmas