Merry Writing

Every writer knows that finding time to write during the holidays is tough, but busy times are when writing is most important. Find the time. Even if it’s twenty minutes. Try to find that time.

I know, in December seems like every spare minute is already accounted for, met with shopping, wrapping, house cleaning, baking, addressing Christmas cards, and in my case in particular, also prepping for the birthdays of my son, wife and mother. But I have to write. I have to cram it in there somewhere.

Writing is the creative release I need to right myself, clear my head and stay positive. Writing is therapy to most writers, and it’s needed now more than ever. The stress of the holidays is consuming, and writing is the best way to relax. Do I really need to worry about certain relatives not getting along? Or whether someone likes a gift that I paid a lot for, or if that blizzard will hit when another relative flies into town. God, I love writing. Just seeing all my worries in print makes me realize that they are not problems at all. Just some middle-class minor inconveniences.

I should rejoice that I can afford a car, or even gas to pick my friends up at an airport, or that my friends can afford a plane ticket. I should be grateful that I get to see my friends and relative at all, and that they care enough to adjust their busy schedule to see me, just for a hug, a drink, to sing, and have conversation, and be well off enough to exchange humble gifts. No, my problems are very small indeed. It sounds cheesy, even cliché, but it’s true: many families are much worse off. Appreciate what you have.

I love my family, extended family and friends. I can’t wait to see them all, invite them into my home, and celebrate the season. AH. I feel much better now. Merry Christmas! Now where did the Scotch tape go?