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Country Wisdom
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Posted by editor Mon Dec 11, 2006 10:18:28 PST
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0 responses 0 comments Wisdom of the week: It would probably be best to quote Epictetus during the month of December. “There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about the things which are beyond the power of our will.”

Almost everyone tries to do what they feel is right, but that can be perceived entirely different for many of us. Possibly the simplest and best thing to keep in mind, during what can be a stressful moment, is to be kind. That doesn’t mean you are being right or wrong, helpful or uncaring, but simply trying to be kind and loving toward others. It will almost always take a great weight off your own shoulders and bring you the peace you’ve been looking for. Try it.

Dear CC: This year I want to enjoy Christmas but don’t want to end up totally stressed out. What’s the best way to handle the food issue?

Dear Mom: There is  never one way that works for everyone– no matter what you may be told. You might want to take a few minutes, though, relaxing with your eyes closed and see what feels right for you. It may be a potluck, an appetizer and desert evening, a wine and selections of soups, a ‘red robin’ that includes other homes, or even a Christmas barbecue.

But your wish to enjoy the season is certainly the right way to start. It seems to be most important to me each year. No matter how difficult our lives can be, one of the simplest and most gratifying things we can do for ourselves is to create a beautiful ‘get together’ place where family and friends are invited to talk, laugh and enjoy a meal. Getting together with cherished friends is really one of life’s greatest pleasures. And with our busy lives, we don’t seem to connect often enough. The holidays give us that reason to reach out and reconnect. And don’t worry, the house will never be perfect, the yard will always need more time and you may feel you should spend more time in the kitchen. But do keep in mind that those issues are all second to the camaraderie you share. May you find this Christmas a most special time of year.

Questions may be mailed to Country Wisdom, Tehachapi News at P.O. Box 1840, Tehachapi, CA 93581, emailed to editorial@tehachapinews.com or dropped off at the Tehachapi News Officer located at 411 N. Mill St.

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