The word “holiday” originates from an old English term meaning “holy day.” Over the years, however, much of the holiness has been lost, and holidays have become more secular.
As different holidays were established throughout history, many of them were not particularly religious or holy but were recognized as public or national special days. The important point is that it became customary to pause and observe these special days in our own way.
Unfortunately, putting all holidays into the same category has caused many of them to lose their distinctiveness. I believe it’s crucial that we preserve the meaning of our religious holidays and keep them holy as we celebrate.
Holidays often bring up a mix of emotions for people — some good and some not so good. For me, the holidays remind me of the happy days spent at my grandmother’s house where the whole family would gather. For a moment, we could laugh, sing, eat delicious food, and enjoy each other’s company.
My grandmother had nine children and many grandchildren, and we would travel from near and far to show gratitude for the blessings God had bestowed on us throughout the year. If anyone in the family was struggling, we would come together to help them overcome their difficulties.
What is it about the holidays that causes us to let our guards down and show kindness to one another, while for the rest of the year, we often build walls that block the same attitude of grace?
There are many reasons why our spirits seem to change during the holidays. For one, many people become nostalgic. As I mentioned, we tend to focus more on the positive than the negative.
Sometimes, I think we even have selective memory about how things used to be. Certain songs or movies can make us feel more festive, and traditions help knit us together in a way like nothing else can.
During this season, we often feel more generous and sympathetic. It’s similar to how after a tragedy hits a community, people instinctively come together to help. If we could carry this spirit of unity throughout the entire year, it would be a beautiful thing.
Love and kindness can be contagious if we are willing to let them into our hearts. I believe it is a mindset we must choose to adopt as a way of life. Are you willing?
As our family continues to grow, with children marrying and having children, I hope to establish positive memories and traditions for them — memories they will cherish and, hopefully, continue when they are no longer under my roof.
But beyond simply enjoying the holiday festivities, I hope they grow into kind, thoughtful people who remember what they believe in and care for others, even when they are different from themselves. If we want hope for future generations, we must put down hatred, mean-spiritedness, and judgment.
This holiday season, hold onto what is true in your heart and spread good cheer to those around you. After our family gathers to give thanks for the birth of Christ — and perhaps a new grandchild — and enjoys a hearty meal, we’ll likely settle in to watch one of our favorite holiday movies, laughing, snuggling, and building new memories.
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on.
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is a life strategist, coach, consultant, author, and speaker.
