Holiday Spirit(s?)
“A good conscience is a continual Christmas.” — Benjamin Franklin
Of course, it’s that time of year again, when holiday cheer springs forth in gushes between friends and family, and yes even strangers, whether real or contrived in its intent or execution. Many times this involves overindulgence in substances we may only normally use in moderation at other times of the year. I for one gave up on all that activity years ago. However, I certainly understand its use and purpose. So, is there a point here? I think so …
Mostly though, this is just an observation on my part. I have watched many people over time use, overindulge, and abuse all types of substances that are supposedly partaken of to either make them feel better, drown their sorrows, or enhance social currency. There is no judgment here, as in my early life I was known for abusing all types of substances, both legal and not. Luckily I found a better way ‘to feel better’ and ‘feel high’ or how about ‘on top of my life in a better way’ that I don’t need those types of crutches. Ah yes, maybe there is a bit of unintended judgment here?
Well no, not really, for I really think, feel, believe, that there is a better way to get ‘those things’ we are trying to get from those substances. Life messes with us, throws us around, and can beat us down. So I think we are continually reacting to that, and continually trying to get back “up.” Then naturally, we try to find the easiest available ‘things’ to get back up there. And guess what; caffeine, alcohol, drugs, etc. are right there for easy consumption. I get it, but … for me, if I can find the time I feel much better taking an alternative action. And believe me, it isn’t easy, but oh my is it so much better for me. Obviously, in the end it is the decision of each of us what we must do, day in and day out when we are faced with these situations. It can be so easy for the ‘fast food’ solution. But is it the best, or even really useful or wise?
The type of meditation I do has saved me many times from going in those other directions. And at a very basic level, it feels so much better to go down this path than all those others I have tried. I know it isn’t always handy to sit down and meditate when things get bad, but there are also some quick, very doable techniques anyone can do in most situations. Plus, the great thing, this is something that only affects you. Because we all know that going down the other paths can possibly not only be detrimental to you long term, but to others close to you. And in the end that is something quite serious to consider. How your actions can affect your family and close friends. I know we have all seen the unintentional devastation and consequences these types of decisions can have on others. How great it would be that we could get back ‘up’ and yet it have no consequences for everyone but in a positive way. I have personally seen this play out numerous times in a so much better way.
I truly believe that each if us longs for, hungers, and craves for that upper, positive path to play out in our lives. But because of our own sometimes shortsighted, spur of the moment decisions, we sabotage ourselves in so many ways. So, as we wind down this year of 2012 and look into the future 2013 can bring, my big wish in the world is we consider more wisely the path we take to find our own way ‘up.’ Please do not choose that easy, substance-filled solution, for there is a source of ‘up’ energy in each of us we can learn to tap into, which is a so much better way to get the “UP’ I think is our real intended future, path, and solution.
Happy Holidays!
