Begin to make the shifts that lead to the close, connected relationships you long to experience. Work with the theme and affirmation below. Take time to experience the word and take in the affirmation. Living from these concepts is not always easy. The words and affirmations are designed to help you become more aware and intentional in your relationships. 

Tradition

I keep and create traditions that hold meaning for myself and those I love.

This year, I carefully reflect on my traditions and consider expanding and/or changing them in order to honor who I am as an individual, my beliefs, my circumstances, changes that have occurred in my life, and my relationships. I recognize that traditions connect me to others and facilitate memories and feelings of belonging. I strive to have those traditions be connective to both those I love and myself. I am not obliged by the past, but rather consciously repeat that which is truly meaningful.

TIP:  Who are you in relationship with this year? You might be reflecting on Christmas past and grieving relationships with people who are no longer here with you. It is important to give space and time to your feelings by finding a way to honor and express them, and also to enjoy and cultivate meaningful interactions with those you are in relationship with now.

Honoring both your grief and your current relationships can be accomplished by giving space and time to each. For example, you might light a candle during a family dinner for someone who has died or memorialize him or her in part of your holiday decorating. Carefully consider what would be meaningful to you and honors your feelings. 

Also, give yourself both permission and encouragement to create time and space to focus on being present and relaxed with those in your life now. Be sure to add traditions that are most appropriate to your current relationships. Take time to brainstorm a list of new, joyful experiences you could possibly share with the people in your life now.

Here are just a few ideas you might want to add to your list:

1.     Host a Holiday Movie Night & Potluck for friends.

2.     Attend or participate in Raymore Parks & Recreation Third Annual Raymore Christmas Tree Trail at T.B. Hanna Station. The lighting of all the trees is on Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. as part of the Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony.

3.     Visit Missouri Town 1855: A Christmas Celebration, Saturday, December 8, 2018. Warm hearth fires, simple but delicious food, period music, an appearance by Belsnickle, and piping hot cider are but a few of the treats awaiting guests.

4.     Take the children in your life to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical  “... as rich as eggnog!" at The Coterie Theater in Crown Center (Visit thecoterie.org or call (816) 474-6552 for showtimes). 

©2018 Laura Aube

Imago Couples or Family Therapy: If you are interested in a private couples or family Imago Therapy session, where clients experience and practice the skills that create happy, connected relationships, call (816) 359-1885 or email laura@creativegrowthandhealing.com. I would be honored to help you on your journey of living from your true self and creating relaxed, joyful relationships.

Laura Aube, LPC, ATR-BC, Certified Imago Therapist
creativegrowthandhealing.com
Email: laura@creativegrowthandhealing.com
Phone:  816-359-1885
Address:  207 South Washington Street, Raymore, MO 64083

Laura Aube is a licensed Counselor in the State of Missouri. She has advanced training as a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, as well as a fully-credentialed Art Therapist.  Laura has twenty-five years of experience as a therapist and specialized expertise in grief, trauma, couples, and family therapy.