Peaceful Holidays to You and Yours

I love the holidays for a multitude of reasons. I love them because family comes together, I love them because it’s a time to be grateful, and I love them because of the energy of joy that fills the air. I also love the holidays because it has a built-in positive message. A short phrase that can begin or end any conversation whether it is with a friend or a stranger is, “Happy Holidays.” That phrase always seems to draw a smile and a returned blessing from the other person.

Often, however, that happiness is momentary. Sometimes we just get caught up with the hustle and bustle of the season. Sometimes, we are actually going through a really tough time during the holidays. Family tension, a recent breakup, or the first Christmas without a loved one often leaves us in a place that is nowhere near happy. So we must ask ourselves, if happiness seems to come and go, what is something that endures? The only thing unshakable by the world is the peace within you.

There is a chapter in the book The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle, which is entitled “Beyond Happiness and Unhappiness There is Peace.” He goes on to answer a question that many of us might ask which is, “Is there a difference between happiness and inner peace?” Tolle answers, “Yes. Happiness depends on conditions being perceived as positive; inner peace does not.” In other words, peace is not dependent on outside factors. In actuality, peace is a letting go of all the outside factors, situations, and judgments that make us categorize things as good or bad, positive or negative. Peace is a state that already exists within us; it is inherent in the energy and source of the universe. Tolle actually calls it your “natural state.” It is not something we have to work hard to attain, but rather a gift we just need to accept.

During the holidays, let’s not spend our energy trying to figure out whether our life is going in a positive or negative direction. True joy comes from knowing we are loved. True joy comes from being present and accepting what is. Most importantly, we know that from a heavenly perspective, there is ONLY a higher good. In other words, peaks and valleys are inherent parts of life.
Instead of judging these peaks and valleys, try to see them as learning experiences. Attempt to keep your vibration high, no matter what is going on around you. That is the greatest gift you can give yourself during the holiday season. Be present in love, accept who and where you are, and let peace dominate your soul.

Peace and Angel Hugs to You and Yours:)