Most people love the Christmas season. They delight in the excitement in the eyes of children as they anticipate Santa’s arrival on Christmas Eve. Then, amidst scattered wrapping paper and packaging all over the living room floor, they rest in the joy of Christmas morning while “A Christmas Story” plays on the TV in the background.
For me, one of the most magical days of the year is December 26th. I can sleep late on Christmas (if my boys will let me), but I awaken wide-eyed and energized the next day. Once the festivities are over, I can get down to the business of de-cluttering, organizing, and planning how I’ll be a better person in the coming year.
I become Chuck Connors’ “The Rifleman” with my Dymo LetraTag Labelmaker holstered at my side. Plastic bins, empty shelves, and tiny containers open a world of possibilities for organizing, categorizing, and sorting. Like a tornado, I tear through the house with such force that my husband and children wonder if I’ll slap a label on them or shove them into bins.
I’ve only recently realized this is about control for me. After the chaotic weeks from Thanksgiving to Christmas are over, I’m ready to regain some command over our household. I start with recycling and move from there to conquering the clutter, anything that will help me reclaim – inch by inch – our space, our home, our peace of mind.
I find that many times throughout the year I’m possessed by this driving force to organize. Worrying about a friend suffering loss, struggling with forgiving someone who has hurt my son, dealing with work and family issues – all of these are invitations to get to work on my environment. If I can control my surroundings, surely I can handle the emotional aspects of my problems and gain some clarity.
But I’ve decided, starting today, that I will take a different approach. I’ll still organize. After all, that is my nature. But every time I’m printing out a label or storing away boxes, I’ll remind myself to let go just a little bit. Maybe I’ll whisper the serenity prayer a time or two. And in letting go of control, I just might gain the peace of mind I’m looking for.