Emotional Survial Tips for the Holidays (and Every Day!)

Have you ever had a holiday season where things have been peaceful between friends and family? Have you been able to renew relationships with those you haven't seen in a while?

Well, you might be wondering what planet I'm from, but bear with me! It is possible to have a great time during the holidays and other times when family and friends you haven't seen for a while come to visit for longer than a few hours.

I know what you're thinking, it's not always possible, and boy, do I know that. My Aunt Mildred always arrived spoiling for a fight and, no matter how we tried, it happened! What I'm suggesting are ways to minimize these stressful situations so you can focus on the important stuff: relationships.

It sounds weird, but many get irked over which way the toothpaste tube is squeezed or which way the toilet paper toll is hung (we do have toilet paper wars in my household: George prefers it hung one way, and I do the other!).

There's a key that I want to pass on to you that has helped me survive these holiday times and the toilet paper and, yes, I confess, toothpaste tube wars in my household. It's simply this: your feelings are real and they do matter, so let yourself feel what you do. Then ask yourself this question, because you'll laugh because it's so absurd: "In the great scheme of things, does this REALLY matter?"

If you're anything like me, you'll giggle and move on to loving your family and friends for who they are and not what they do. In case you didn't notice, we're still on Great Commandment living. Isn't God awesome? He gives us such principles so that we can live the life He wants us to to the fullest!

Have an encouraging day and may you be an instrument of encouragement to all those He sends acrosss your path

Blessings, Pastor Sharon Billlington
http://www.encouragingwordsministries.com
Transforming lives through developing balanced, emotionally healthy relationships with God, others and self