Despite the pandemic, positive vibes will keep us smiling
Last week, I felt myself getting annoyed about something and I couldn’t quite put my finger on what it was, until I heard it someone say it out loud … ‘Christmas is cancelled’!
I have seen the phrase ‘Christmas is cancelled’ in the media, on TV and in many social media platforms too but hearing it from someone close to me made it stronger. The negative vibes flowing off a phrase like that are obvious.
As lockdown restrictions continue in varying forms up to, and beyond the festive season, we have been painted a very dim outlook of traditional celebrations this year, despite there being talk of a relaxing of the rules for a few days either side of December 25.
The reality, however, is that while we will not be able to do whatever we want this year, there is still plenty of things we can do to give ourselves a festive glow, spread a bit of positivity and to make the most of a tough situation at the end of a very tough year.
Shared on Facebook
So, on a cold and wintery afternoon, I shared my thoughts on my Facebook page and asked my friends: ‘what have you enjoyed and what things have brought a smile to you recently?’
The responses brought a big smile to my face.
And the speed at which the responses came made me think that other people, like me, were very keen to spread a bit of joy in the world too.
Putting up Christmas trees, lights and decorations ‘early’ was high on the list of replies but so were the basics of life that we all too often overlook.
Family time, baking, fresh air, Sunday roasts, supportive family and friends, baths, films and a general slower pace of life with nowhere to rush off to.
It’s amazing how good the simple things in life can be at times.
Resilient
It also shows how resilient we can be as humans to find joy in testing times.
Perhaps these months we have spent restricted by a pandemic will also teach us to be more aware of positives that we have in life.
As a therapist, that is one of the things I try to work on with people. Not focusing on life’s negatives, or what we can’t do, but being aware of good things that are around us and our achievements. It’s just that we don’t tend to see them so easily.
Perhaps we could create a platform where people can share their positive vibes? I know reading the responses to my Facebook post certainly made me feel happy.
So, whatever we are allowed to do this Christmas, have a good time and spread some joy. One thing I am certain of, is that we all deserve it.
Read more: My why? OT Week – by Rebecca Griffiths
