When you run a website like I do, you spend a lot of time online.  And lately, it has been so incredibly draining.  There is a lot of ugliness in the world right now.  There is a lot of anger and judgment.  There are also many people suffering with job loss, heartbreak, mental illness, and physical ailments.  Then there are others who are caught up in the consumerism, who believe that buying the right things means you’re “winning” at Christmas.

I find it sad to see so much pain and ugliness during one of the most beautiful times of the year.  I am working hard to find joy during the holiday season.  It is not easy, but there is still plenty of  light and happiness left in the world.

And the best part? Finding joy doesn’t cost a thing.

Find joy in the children who still believe in Santa and giving and kindness.  Find joy in their laughter and smiles.

Believe in the helpers who seek to make a difference in the world with their kindness and hard work.

Be one of those helpers.

Find happiness in the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the holiday season.

Enjoy hot cocoa, warm blankets, and old Christmas movies.

Sing Christmas carols.

Dance.

Listen to someone’s story.

Take a walk outside on a cold, starry night.

Tell people you love them.  Better yet, show them.

Be kind to everyone you meet.

Did you notice something about this list?  Not one of them costs a dime.  Think what a better place this world would be if we all spent time doing these things instead of doing time on Facebook.  If we spent time being kind instead of buying stuff.  If we spent time finding joy instead of focusing on the negative.

Find joy this holiday season.  It’s still there.  Enjoy the season with your friends and family.