Christmas Eve, 2009, and I, as usual, am at a loss as to what to give to my family and friends. We have our same old Christmas tree in a corner in this new house. Paul and I have loaded it with toys. So, each family member will have a toy when we have our Christmas dinner. We are planning a turkey on December 28 so that all the family can celebrate together. When there are five children and other families to consider, we have found that the “one day” concept may not be the most workable. So, any time during the twelve days of Christmas will do for a great family celebration.
In keeping with the idea that all of us have Strengths, I decided that I could give more intangible gifts. The things we purchase may not be on target and they become something to decide about later–do we give it on to someone else, donate it to a charitable cause, display it when it doesn’t fit the decor, wear it when it is not desired, or treasure it forever (which means more storage space)–what to do with all these things? I think about that when I am trying to choose the right gift for others. Doesn’t seem to be in my talent bank. One of my daughters has the perfect sense of what to give, but I missed that when they were creating my list of talents.
One of my sons said he is giving only consumable items this year. I like that idea, too. Eat it up, use it up, or let it die. No extra closet space needed when fresh flowers or fruit are the gift.
Whatever we decide about the material side of the season, the essence of what it is all about seems to lead me back to the positive side of life and my real belief in the optimistic story of the Baby Jesus and the meaning of His teaching.
I have written my version of the twelve days of Christmas as my gift to each of my family members and my friends. Please know that I mean it when I say, I will give each of these items. You won’t have to return them, re-gift them, display them, or store them. They will be intangible and consumable. You may redeem your gift throughout the year 2010, with my blessing. I am honored to be in your life and your sacred Individuality is important to me.
Sing these words to the tune of the traditional Twelve Days of Christmas:
On the first day of Christmas,
Marj Barlow sent to me
A gift of a loving friendship
On the second day of Christmas,
Marj Barlow sent to me
Two hours of listening
On the third day of Christmas,
Marj Barlow sent to me
Three good book titles
On the Fourth day of Christmas,
Marj Barlow sent to me
Four coaching sessions
On the Fifth day of Christmas,
Marj Barlow sent to me
Five thoughts of Love
On the Sixth day of Christmas,
Marj Barlow sent to me
Six bright ideas
On the Seventh day of Christmas,
Marj Barlow sent to me
Seven soft shoulders
On the Eighth day of Christmas,
Marj Barlow sent to me
Eight meals of kindness
On the Ninth day of Christmas,
Marj Barlow sent to me
Nine walks together
On the Tenth day of Christmas,
Marj Barlow sent to me
Ten games of your choice
On the Eleventh day of Christmas
Marj Barlow sent to me
Eleven music sharings
On the Twelfth day of Christmas
Marj Barlow sent to me
Twelve drumming circles.
Enjoy your family and celebrate this blessed season!