It’s the Season. As a country and a society we come from many diverse cultures and belief systems. And few other countries in the world protect the right of self expression, of religious and ethnic diversity the way we do. We are not perfect, but we are probably unique. In this Season, that is worth acknowledging and celebrating. We tend to measure a person by what is important to them and how that meshes with what is important to us as a society. Mostly we are a forgiving people; because in others we see ourselves and we ask whatever spiritual source we have personally for forgiveness as well. The fact we try to hold to high principles and values is also worth celebrating. And no matter what you believe is behind all of this, is it not of the highest good to celebrate your connection with your own Source as well?

It has been a marathon year. Deep recession, war, climate concerns, healthcare, shifts in our socio-political system, budget cuts and layoffs are the mile markers of this lengthy race. Most of us have to stand by and watch others try to fix the problems we have. That can be frustrating, even depressing at times. Our culture is based in a large part on self-confidence in our ability to make things right that are wrong. So standing aside while others work is not fulfilling. And for the most part we love to work together, although that thought is often tested in our political system. We know change is upon us in many ways. But being human, we don’t always like to change. Change can threaten our beliefs, values, and habits, forcing us to reinvent ourselves. That is not necessarily fun. Currently we face strongly divided opinions about the correct courses of action to take on our major local and national issues. Because of the number and magnitude of those issues, our stress is higher, our patience lower and our willingness to collaborate often disappears. At times, the political rhetoric is so out of bounds we question the integrity and common sense of our politicians. In times like these, UFOs might seem to make more sense than our leaders.

You might not have a direct line to the President. Few of us do. But you can develop ways to make a difference. You can do this right in your own back yard, and have an impact on the world at large as well. Start by asking yourself, “What is one thing I can do today to make a difference?” It doesn’t have to be a big difference. Most of the time, big changes are the result of many small changes from multiple contributors put together over time. The one thing you pick may be an idea you have or an action you wish to take. Both are valid. As noted author Julia Cameron suggests in her books on creativity, just start doing something every day. Make that a daily practice or habit. Don’t judge your work as less than the work of others. Your abilities and contributions will develop as you continue your practice.

Finding a starting point for your practice can be a challenge. One simple technique is to start your day with a question. Specifically, ask yourself one the following questions:

What is one thing I can do today to:
Connect with another?
Create together?
Give of myself?
See the nature of things?
Forgive?
Accept?
Allow truth to come forth?
Feel the energy of Source?
Be in harmony?
Be of high purpose?
Seek guidance?
Focus on my purpose?

At the end of the day, reflect on what you learned. Use one of these questions every day. Asking the question at the start of the day also sets up your whole day. You may find things are a bit cheerier as a result. So in this Season when we wish to give something to others, consider giving something that will make a difference. Give yourself. Give someone what may be the most wonderful gift of all, a bit of your time.

May this Season bring you Great Joy!