I joined a challenge called Holidailies... to blog every day from December 1st until January 1st.
I figured something out tonight. Just articulating it made me feel less confused about the holiday season. My traditions are as important as a family's traditions. Just because I am by myself doesn't mean that the things I enjoy most about the holidays are less important or should be pushed aside to cater to someone who has a family. I am my own family.
I love driving slowly, gently through the streets of town on Christmas Eve. I enjoy spending time by myself, listening to music, watching Christmas movies and hanging out in my pajamas. Usually eating Chinese food. It's mellow yet meaningful. And it's mine.
Often I feel like my rituals are secondary to what other people (those with children or spouses or both) have for their rituals. When my Christmas Eve was going to be encroached upon, I came to value and treasure my time by myself.
Sometimes it's good to be alone.
2 comments:
I could not be more supportive of you in this. It heartened me to read it.
I'm alone, too, and for the most part, I thrive on my alone time. And I agree with you completely! My tradition is yours, but on it's ear. I spend Christmas Eve with family, go to the midnight church service (at my church -- I'm a different faith than the rest of my family) and then I spend Christmas alone. I use it for reflection.
Great post!
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