30 Days of Gratitude: Day 14

Making Yourself Happy On Your Timeline

There is a cultural debate about when it is okay to decorate for Christmas. I have friends who won't do it until after Thanksgiving. I have family that are like me and decorate starting Nov 1.

Being able to decorate for the holidays is a privilege. Being able to have decorations that change the mood of your home is something not everyone has. I'm of the mindset that ou should do what makes you happy. There might be folks who are going through a hard time. Seeing holiday decorations might bring a smile from the warm lights and the smell of candles. For some, they need a change in scenery because of new stressors and the nostalgia that comes from decorating help boost overall well-being.

I don't take for granted that I have the ability to have decorations, nor do I apologize for putting them up earlier than others (yes my outside lights are on too). One thing I do is look and listen to help others. Folks lose things in fires, nasty family drama, being down on their luck, and other circumstances that makes sense life hard. If you have the ability to help someone be able to enjoy some holiday decor, perhaps give something you don't use to someone who would love it. Help someone who doesn't have the means but providing some holiday cheer.

Don't take for granted the colors, sounds, and smells of the holidays. Help someone else if you can.