As Christmas nears, many people find themselves caught up in the whirlwind of festive
preparations, racing against time to check off tasks on their TO DO lists. However, slowing down during this season has its benefits.
For instance, when we decorate our family Christmas tree, it's done with patience, mindfulness, and no big rush to get it
done.
Our tree (pictured above) is more than just a decoration. Rather, it is a living tapestry woven with years and years of memories. Each ornament, carefully unwrapped and thoughtfully placed on a branch, tells a story.
In a world that often rushes through the rituals of the season, this deliberate act of adorning our tree has become a cherished tradition.
Personally, as I handle each ornament with care, memories
flood my mind like a cherished photo album. Our Hello Kitty ornament transports me back to a time when my daughter's world revolved around her cherished Hello Kitty collection. Her innocent joy and unwavering attachment to her feline companion are immortalized in that small, festive ornament.
The sand dollar ornament, a memento from my
husband during our first Christmas together, evokes the sweet nostalgia of early love and shared dreams. It serves as a testament to the enduring bond we've built over the years.
Every ornament on our tree carries similar sentimental weight, transforming the act of
decoration into a walk down memory lane. From Cinderella's castle acquired during a magical trip to Disneyworld to a lamppost from Hershey Park, PA, and a message in a bottle from the enchanting streets of San Francisco, our tree embodies the diversity of our family adventures.
Each ornament is a tangible reminder of the people in our lives, the places we've explored, the laughter we've shared, and the bonds that have grown stronger with time.
One particular ornament holds a special place of prominence on our tree—a cardinal given to me by a friend when my mother passed away in
2017. This small, red bird stands as a tribute to the enduring spirit of loved ones who may no longer be with us physically but live on in the cherished memories we hold dear.
While I'm always advocating for efficiency and time-saving strategies, the slow and thoughtful process of decorating my family's Christmas tree is a deliberate
choice. It serves as a gentle reminder that some things in life should not be rushed.
The act of unwrapping each ornament and finding the perfect branch is not just about creating a visually pleasing tree; it's about honoring the past, celebrating the present, and
building a foundation for future memories.
In a society that often races against the clock, the deliberate pace of decorating our tree has become a form of meditation—a moment of respite and reflection.
If you decorate a tree this holiday season, I invite you to embrace the art of slow and thoughtful Christmas tree decorating. Savor the memories woven into each ornament and appreciate the beauty of the present moment.
When your tree is fully decorated, take at least a few mindful moments to enjoy it each and every day. This wonderful season goes by way too fast.
