The Sentient Sentinel

Christmas can be a touchy time of the year for the Pagan Community. Due to a long history of persecution from the religion that stole the Pagan holiday, many Pagans look unfavorably on Christmas. It doesn't help that after Thanksgiving (if you're lucky) everywhere is decorated with the capitalistic decor of Santa, Frosty, and Lights. It gets worse yet when December hits and every store you step foot into plays Christmas music, and usually of the Christian kind. And of course, people have an innate ability to act very foully during a holiday designated to treating people well. All of this said and done, the holidays are what you make of them. Far from a time to unwind, with the constant stress of deadlines and relatives that you only see on holidays for good reason, it's important to enjoy the little things. Whether the people you meet over the holidays are your brothers, sisters, best friends, or an annoying cousin from out of town, be appreciative of them. Sometimes telling yourself that the people in your life have only the best of intentions can make dealing with the stress of the holidays that much better. Also, remind yourself that everyone is just as stressed as you are right now. But most importantly, take some time to treat yourself. If you received gift cards or cash you could buy yourself a gift. It doesn't have to be extravagant, but something that you want that you may not normally buy for yourself. Perhaps lay in bed someday and read a book or watch a favorite movie. The holidays can be a pleasant time of the year if you attempt to balance it. Thank you all for a wonderful year and Happy Holidays.