One of my favorite Christmas traditions holds meaning that goes beyond a single holiday, resonating with anyone – whether you celebrate Christmas, another tradition, or are simply grateful to make it through the year.
Every Christmas Eve, my family heads to our local church. Outside, it’s dark and cold; but inside, the sanctuary is warm and cheerful. We sing Christmas carols and the preacher gives a (hopefully brief) message. Young kids try to sit still, and their parents try to have patience when they can’t. Teens who’ve upgraded from their usual jeans and sweats shift in their seats. Generations sit side-by-side as a family.
Near the end of the service, a hush settles over the crowd and the overhead lights go dim. The congregation waits with anticipation as ushers step forward to light their candles at the front. Then they walk down the center aisle lighting the candles of those sitting at the end of each row. One by one, the person with the lit candle holds it tall and strong, while the next person in the row tilts their unlit candle to the flame to light it.
The whole process feels slow at first, but soon the whole church is aglow in soft candlelight. Every person plays a part – regardless of age or circumstance, ready for the holiday or just barely holding it together. Each person sharing their light with another.
When all the candles are finally lit, we sing “Silent Night” together. The last verse is sung a cappella, candles held high – a beautiful moment of peace and unity. Of course, there’s always the practical side: making sure you don’t accidentally set your neighbor’s hair or coat on fire! But deeper than that, it’s a reminder that the most meaningful moments of the season come when we slow way down and truly connect.
As the holiday season peaks, recent polls reveal that at least half – even up to two-thirds – of Americans are stressed out. The reasons vary: worry over endless to-do lists, financial strain from paying for gifts and travel, or the challenge of navigating family dynamics. Most of us know the extra anxiety this time of year can bring.
So how can we find – and hold on to – that “Silent Night” peace that so often seems out of reach? The answer is simpler than you might expect.
Be yourself
After weeks spent meeting everyone else’s expectations, take time to find what brings you calm, peace, and joy. Curl up with a good book. Work on a puzzle. Watch a movie or listen to your favorite playlist on repeat.
Connect with those around you in ways that feel right for you. If big gatherings drain you, it’s perfectly fine to duck out early or catch up further with close friends or relatives over coffee another day.
Honor traditions you love, but don’t hesitate to simplify them or start new ones if the old no longer fit. Just because your grandmother did something a certain way doesn’t mean you have to. Do what brings you meaning.
Be present
Be truly present with yourself and those around you. Put your phone down and enjoy down time with those you love. Leave space for low-tech, unscripted moments, which often spark the richest conversations and create lasting memories.
Be open to kindness
When we’re running on empty, our instinct is often to shut out the world. After giving so much, isn’t it fair to focus on yourself? Absolutely. But small acts of kindness towards others – even strangers – can replenish your spirit rather than deplete it.
Keep it simple. A nod and kind word to someone you pass. Holding the door for the next person, even if it means you wait a bit longer. Dropping off cookies and an encouraging note for a neighbor who’s struggling. It doesn’t take much, and your own heart will feel fuller for it.
Even when “peace on earth” feels out of reach, finding peace in your own corner of the world can be enough. But no one can do it for you – it’s a gift you give yourself.
So, for at least a few precious days this holiday season, let go of the endless doing and simply BE. It may be the best present you can give yourself in this season…and just what you need to recharge for the coming year.
Happy holidays to all! May 2026 bring you joy and peace as we continue this shared journey of impact together.
Please share this post and remember:
You matter! But you’re best for your people and the world if you rest and recharge from time to time. Consider this your permission to do it!
