Here are some lessons I have learned from my favorite holiday books.
Don’t be a Grinch – How The Grinch Stole Christmas
Sometimes when I’m having a bad day, it’s incredibly easy to snap at someone, be negative and scowl. None of those things ever make me feel better, though – they just increase my crankiness. But I find when I’m having a really bad day, a kind gesture to someone, smiling, or helping someone else can instantly reverse my bad mood and make my heart grow three size bigger. Just like the Grinch learned when he brought Christmas back to Whoville, taking my mind off myself and thinking of others is the easiest way to improve my day.
Christmas Spirit Should be Celebrated All Year – A Christmas Carol
At the end of A Christmas Carol, Ebenezer Scrooge pledges to “honor Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all year.” I can’t imagine a finer lesson to take away from this holiday classic! Goodwill towards man is something to be practiced and celebrated all year long, not just in the dark, short days of December. It’s easy to be generous and merry when you’re surrounded by Christmas cookies and twinkle lights. But implementing that kind spirit daily is a challenge and a blessing I think everyone should accept.
Celebrate Your Individuality – Rudolf The Red-Nosed Reindeer
Where would we be if Rudolph’s bright nose hadn’t guided Santa’s sleigh through snow on that story night? Just like Rudolph, learning to celebrate my differences was hard for me. It has been a lifelong lesson. It’s not always easy to be unique, but celebrating what makes us different is acknowledging what makes us special.
Let Go of Expectations – Little Women
Amy says to Laurie “…it’s wicked to throw away so many good gifts because you can’t have the one you want.” How many times have I left a moment or an opportunity go unappreciated because I wanted something else? Sometimes you have to let go of what you think you should have in order to appreciate all the amazing things in front of you.
Take Risks – Elf
Buddy didn’t let the fact that he had never left the North Pole before keep him from finding his father. It is hard to leave your comfort zone and take a risk. But if you don’t put yourself out there and go after something you really want, you can never hope to achieve it. Don’t let fear keep you from pursuing your dreams.
Happy Holidays!
Great insights, thank you.