Baby Boomer Talk Online

1. Do Not Seek Perfection The classic perfect image of the holidays: Fresh-fallen snow glistening outside and a roaring blaze crackling inside a giant, stone fireplace. Happy faces, hot chocolate and the gift that we always wanted. Reality? In most areas the snow comes from a can. Your three-year-old spilled the hot chocolate all over him and you. The wrapped box you have stared at for two weeks turned out to be a red tie with reindeers on it.

Perfect holidays only exist in movies and the afterlife. Here on earth, we need to lessen the expectations. Seeking the perfect holiday only creates a high level of stress for you and everyone involved. Let things happen naturally.

2. Reasons For The Season:Usually lost in the mix of the holiday rush are the actual reasons we are celebrating. We worry about family members that don't get along. We stress over gift lists, budgets and menus. The tensions are so high that bickering and resentment become the featured guests at our gathering. Instead, try to maximize the importance of the holiday itself. The majority of holidays this time of year are faith based. Moments to reflect and display our appreciation for blessings that have been bestowed upon us. Focus on the reason and not the season.

3. Give Thanks: In the bigger picture, isn't it wonderful to even have a family? So many people are completely alone in this world. As your family sits around the table eating dry turkey, a man is huddled up behind a grocery store dumpster seeking scraps. A woman sits alone in the dark crying as addiction has destroyed her life. Children, orphaned and homeless, dream of what life must be like for children who have the things they so desperately miss. There, but for the grace of God, go I. Get on your knees and give thanks for this grace, and everything else will seem small in comparison.

Bonus: Just Forgive.It is time to forgive. You have fought with your sister for 10 years and nothing has been resolved. Issue a full and completely absolving pardon. Be the bigger person. Forgiveness can be the best gift you give this holiday! Use this season to begin a new and positive chapter in your family relationships.