Peace Under Pressure

Well, the Christmas season has begun, last weekend we hauled out the holly, decked the house up, hung the stockings and trimmed the tree! I lead the Advent class and started to make my lists. Yes, the season is in full swing. As a life coach I am constantly encouraging others to find balance, meaning and peace in their life. But as we know peace is not easy to come by during the hectic and busy pace that is thrust upon us. So maybe peace is our goal….balance and meaning is our aim. It is unrealistic to think that we will experience a total stress-free and  idyllic “wonderful life” free of difficulties holiday. Instead what if we created Peace Under Pressure? Staying peaceful while making the lists and checking them twice.

I am reading this wonderful little Advent book called From Holidays to Holy Days by a Benedictine Monk named Albert Holtz, Albert suggests that “One great help towards keeping a sense of peace and joy in the midst of rushing around is to cultivate a sense of true humility: When we admit that I am not God, then I no longer expect to be able to accomplish everything that I want, or to control every event or person around me. Humility can take a lot of pressure off!

Whew!! That is a relief. What a heavy load to think that I am responsible for everything and everyone around me. I could get resentful and weary working hard to keep everything PERFECT! Maybe there is unexpected joys to be found in the un-perfect? Much needed rest within the “no, we can’t make it this year.” How wonderful that we are not God, but are blessed by a loving God who can provide rest for the weary and joy, comfort and peace in His presence!

It is so true when we are gentle with ourselves and give ourselves permission to not be perfect and simplify the season it can take a lot of pressure off. It truly is a gift of peace you can give to yourself and to those how are around you. The pressure will still be there, but so will a certain peace of heart that comes from living an authentic life full of humility and self love.

May you find Peace Under Pressure this Christmas!