Christmas is just around the corner, and for me, it means another Christmas with friends as my family remains a little out of reach in Australia and New England.
I can honestly say that since 2003 I have maybe spent a total of four holiday seasons with my family in Australia and one in New England. I’ve missed those moments because I was galavanting around the world, attempting to discover all the wonders it has to offer. And through my many adventures, I have had some of the best holiday seasons I could have ever dreamed of.
Because for me the holidays mean more than just presents, it’s the feeling that comes with the season and how it enables me to slow down after a busy year and reflect on what’s important in life.
I have learned many things over the years, but most importantly, it is that the Christmas spirit can still be embraced even when you aren’t with family. My friends have proven over and over again that friends are the family you choose, and because of my ever extended family, it’s meant that I’m never truly alone.
Although it’s been a rollercoaster year, its also been an adventure for me, and it’s around this time of year I begin my reflections of the months that have past. From the opportunities to do some really fun stories to meeting new friends and even the hard times, I embrace it all for the bigger picture I am looking towards.
I’ve always come across several columnists’ this time of year that talk about the stresses of the holidays and how to endure the sadness that some may feel, but for me, I aim to look at the positive and hope you, the reader, can do the same.
As Garth Brooks said in his latest documentary, “every blessing is a curse, and every curse is a blessing.” He is talking about the balance of life and what transpires with each event we take part in.
So specifically with this editorial, I don’t intend to preach to you of how to get through any sadness that may be felt. But instead, I feel it is my opportunity to share with you the excitement of the season and how to look to embrace the Christmas spirit that can help you indulge fully in the magic seen this time of year and perhaps help better prepare you for the next year.
The holiday spirit is all around us; no matter where you go this time of year, you can see someone dressed festively, maybe humming a carol, or you could even be sitting at home delving into a Christmas movie. This can do wonders to help you feel happy and excited, no matter where you are.
One thing I like to encourage is acknowledging all that has taken place in the past year, good and bad, it all matters. When I get through that reflection, I find that the spirit of the season becomes exceptionally overwhelming in a good way and allows me to get excited for the year ahead.
Even something as simple as waking up and feeling that cold winter air hit your face, the spirit of Christmas in the air as you step outside with that cup of hot chocolate can do so much to help you enjoy the season and its magic before you embark on the next years’ adventure.
No matter what has happened since the clock clicked over to the beginning of 2019, try not to dwell on the mishaps, instead find that silver lining, learn from the experiences given and get yourself ready to welcome 2020 while enjoying the company of loved ones.
From myself and all the staff here at 1st Street Media and myparistexas.com, we hope you have a magical Christmas and happy New Year wherever you may be.
Erin Jusseaume
Editor
