Sunday, December 28, 2008

The Gifts of Change

Thank you all so much for your support, smiles, and sound insight re. my extraordinarily self indulgent post about this year's ChristMess. Sometimes, or very often actually, you really have to hit the wall to make some changes and I think this year did the trick for our family. I remember going to a Tony Robbins seminar twenty years ago and learning that people are motivated to change either to seek pleasure or escape pain. As you can see, I'm still learning. And I am delighted to say after several heartfelt discussions with my husband, Changes Are Afoot for any and all celebrations. So thank you again.

I am not an ungrateful boob and I do enjoy the company of our friends and neighbors, but I am owning the fact that if I can't give of something freely and for the sole pleasure of Giving, (which I frequently am lucky enough to experience), then I Ain't Doing It. Whew, that's feels good. Okay, therapy session over.

I would like to share of the abundance I was privileged to receive:

Our oldest son turning to me on December 23rd as we are trying to finish decorating the tree and saying, "Mom, we have enough ornaments on the tree, it looks great."

At work, a new patient expressing appreciation for my clinical support.

Reminding my husband who was fussing about me and the boys petsitting over Christmas for a friend and widow that this is what Christmas is about.

Our family having a lovely afternoon at the Aquarium of The Pacific in Long Beach and a great dinner at the Mandarin Chateau in Chinatown.

Enjoying the support, sharing, and wisdom of my blogging buddies.

6 comments:

Cara said...

Martha - what a wonderful way to look at the whirlwind you just survived.

Once again, we seem to be of the same mind. My afternoon post mimicked the sentiment!

xoxo

MuseSwings said...

Stop by - I have an award for you!
Cynthia

Unknown said...

aw, what a lovely post and what a a great way to put it ... christ-mess!!! i certainly have had more than a few of my share of christmas-christmesses!!! so glad you can see the silver lining in all the dark clouds :).

Raggedy Ann said...

I think change is something we should always welcome in life. My sweet Martha, tell you what, why don't you come over to Portugal and we'll do some serious celebrating over here. And bring that gourmet cook of yours so I can teach him all about Portuguese cuisine.

Love,
RAxx

PS: Have you noticed how I keep switching identities? I'm like Jekyll & Hyde!

Kalei said...

So I noticed the last couple posts mention comments from your son. Wow! he sounds like a great kid that is totally helpful, respectful, and pretty cool. I am glad you have such a wonderful family and son that recognizes it. =)

KimboSue said...

Glad to hear your holidays were eventful to say the least.