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Well, the end of the year is here and here’s hoping we’ve been ready for all the sights, sounds and “hoopla” of this month! During the year, we go through our daily routines with bits of fanfare sprinkled throughout the days, weeks and months. We may have cause to celebrate for various reasons. However, as we reach year-end, somehow, the anticipation begins to grow and you can feel the excitement building in the air. People are hustling and bustling. Retailers are performing their countdowns thus adding to the already apparent frenzy.
It’s not just here in the United States but around the world. Europe goes into its display of extravagant market places. In Italy, it is said that winter is known for its corn leaf and plant fires that line the streets. They are also known for its huge tree and nativity scene representations in St. Peter’s Square. Some folks stop to celebrate the Winter Solstice. The months of winter, particularly December, mark a time for people to celebrate. They may do this with special food traditions. People continue to come together and practice whatever traditions and practices they’ve experienced during their family’s lifetime. December may be partially known for its number of celebrations that bring people together. Perhaps by now, you have begun to experience some of these celebrations. If so, take heed in a few simple tips to help you through it all:
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Try to remain calm. There is a lot going on and it is easy to become caught in the frenzy. Take a few breaths and move on.
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Take one day at a time. Remember, Rome was not built in a day!
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Make a list and stick to it. This is a good way to make sure you don’t miss anything and it helps keep you on track.
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Try to remain healthy. Get your sleep. Drink plenty of water. Stay away from those who appear to be sick. Wear a mask if you must. Keep your hands washed and try to eat the rainbow colors of food. (Vegetables, fruit, etc.)
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Try to enjoy the moment. Life goes so fast and when we are hustling and bustling with the best of them, we usually don’t take the time to think about how fortunate we are. Another way to say it is to “stop and smell the roses” or in this case, the evergreens!
Once you’ve made it through the celebrations, look back on the year and marvel at all you’ve done to help others. This is a tough profession because it often involves the careful catering to the emotions, wants and needs of others. You’ve done well to make it through another year of giving of yourself. So, take some time for you. Whether you have already celebrated Hanukkah or are about to celebrate Christmas, Kwanzaa, and the New Year’s Eve celebrations, may you take pride in knowing you helped so many enjoy their holiday celebrations. This was done through your kindness, hard work and dedication to others. Thank you all for being who you are and for doing what you do. Thank you for being part of our MASWA organization and for making it what it is today; an organization built to help keep you knowledgeable and to provide the tools you need to do your very best.
Happy Holidays to You!
Hope to see you on Thursday, January 25 from 2:30 – 4:00 pm. Bring your favorite dish or snack. We will celebrate with great friends, great food and great surprises!
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