Perfectly Imperfect

The holiday season is officially upon us, and people are already feeling stressed as they attempt to create a perfect holiday. Some are worried about house guests and dinner menus while others are concerned with finding just the right gift. Then there are those who are just downright worn out and don’t know how they are going to fit it all in! It seems that the desire to live up to the image of the perfectly roasted turkey on the perfectly set table, with perfectly dressed and mannered people all around has driven many of us to the point of dreading the holidays. Yet, in our heart-of hearts we know that the image we strive to live up to is nothing more than a manufactured view of “perfection”. No one can possibly be that perfect!

So what is the key to a perfect holiday?

Give up believing that you, or the people around you, have to be perfect in order to have a warm, loving, and meaningful time with your loved ones! Laugh when the smoke detector goes off (after any flames are extinguished, of course); humor your relative who can’t resist asking when you are going to get married… or when you are going to have kids… or why Janie can’t sit still; let your son or daughter dress themselves, even if their top and pants don’t match; and simply open your heart to the craziness that the holidays often bring and cherish it for what it is… the opportunity to get connected with your loved ones and friends, no matter how challenging it may be!

My best to you and yours for a very Happy Thanksgiving!