What brings you a little joy? Can you integrate that with your plans for Thanksgiving? It seems that there are myriad things that can bring us joy – but do you know how you can create an atmosphere of joy that will involve everyone else?
Prepare for an experience of joy at your Thanksgiving, whether you are the host or not:
Joy comes from experiences, not objects.
That is right, the turkey and dressing and such are objects that hold significance for us, but it is what we are doing while we eat them that matters. Check out this article about how experience matters more than objects:http://www.spring.org.uk/2008/01/experiences-beat-possessions-why.php
So – how to create experiences:
1. Come with plenty of good topics to discuss that should leave people with interest but not anger. Spend some time this week preparing these topics, but not thinking them through. You don’t need to know everything to start the topics. Get everyone else talking.
2. Prepare to ask questions, not explain. People generally have a good time if they are the ones talking.. Be gracious. Show interest in others as a way of showing gratitude.
3. Offer help in the kitchen. Bring food, and do something to help clean up. Ask if there will be other guests with special dietary needs so you can perhaps help make that person feel comfortable.
4. If there will be children, brings games or other diversions to share with them. Children will remember this fondly when they are older. Don’t you? But don’t expect they will actually want to play. Allowing more options for the kids is the point. Some kids will appreciate the options, but will not take you up on them. Do not take it personally.
5. Let go of your expectation that you will set the tone. Let others do it. You are able to relax, contribute, but relax. Enjoy the setting and the effort others are showing you, even if you are the host.
6. Figure out what you enjoy about each person. If you think you already know, let that go and try to find what you like about the person, now. Allow your perceptions of others to change. This is a great time to talk about plans for new beginnings, next year, and all sorts of unexpected ideas. Allow others to sense that you can let go of the past and move into new territory.
If you have ever had someone take an interest in you, you will know how much that experience can mean. It doesn’t matter what age the person is, it is never too late to take an interest.
See you tomorrow!
