This holiday season, my two seven-year-old grandsons shared with me the meaning of Christmas from their perspectives. Logan told me he discovered the real meaning of Christmas. When I asked him what it was, he responded, “It’s not about the presents. It’s really about forgiveness. You are supposed to forgive people who have been mean to you.” This sounds like an excellent practice to me all year long. Zavier agreed that Christmas wasn’t about presents, but rather, “It’s about the time you get to spend with your family and friends.” More words of wisdom from the young.

My grandsons got me thinking about how closing the year with forgiveness helps start the new year with a full fresh heart and mind. There are so many words that come to mind when I think of the holidays and welcoming a new year: hope, joy, love, peace, family, friends, and, now, forgiveness. Too often, though, our hearts and minds are filled with stress, financial worries, and frustrations instead.

Let’s work at adopting mindfulness and gratitude during the holidays:

1. Be present with those we love
2. Have an attitude of gratitude for each moment we experience
3. Focus on what we have, rather than what we don’t
4. Be thankful for what we can do, not what we can’t
5. Remember the positive instead of the negative
6. Be satisfied with the people who are there, instead of ruminating about the ones who are missing
7. Experience the love that abounds during the holiday season

If you think you are going to be alone during the holidays, take time to remember past holiday seasons that were particularly special with a grateful heart. Search inside for the love that is always with you. We are all love; it is part of our DNA. Being alone doesn’t have to mean being lonely; I know people who feel lonely in the middle of a party. Being alone means you have time for reflection. Do something for someone else in the true spirit of the season. Do your best to implement the list above.

From my heart to yours, enjoy every moment of this magical time of year.