Wanting

When I was a child at this time of year I spent a lot of time thinking about what I wanted for Christmas, and I made a list every year for Santa and later for my parents. But I was reminded that it's always better to give than receive, and now I spend a lot of time thinking about what to give to others rather than what I want for myself. I suspect many, if not most, adults focus more on giving than getting. But some adults have no trouble identifying what they want, and then going out and getting it. Sometimes that's a good thing, a sign of ambition and success. Sometimes it's just being selfish.

But sometimes we have to be selfish to take care of ourselves.We have to acknowledge what we want and then we have to find the time or resources to get it. For some, it might be a new puppy or a new pair of boots. For others, it might be time with friends. For me, what I want most is peace and harmony in my life.

Make a list of what you want, first just in whatever order the thoughts come. Then rewrite the list: in order of importance, or in order of ease, or in the order
that sounds best to your ears. When you're done, sit back and reread what you wrote. Fine someone to share your lists with. And see if somehow the magic of the season helps you get what you most want after all.