The evolutionary shift from excitement, to obligation, to gratitude is real. Especially during the holidays.

I have fond memories of holiday preparations, family gatherings, waiting for moments of excitement and mystery.

Then I realized the magic wasn’t truly felt by everyone; there was an unspoken list of obligations to host events, stretch budgets, people to tolerate, pretend joy to show, and then repeat.

Obligations are typically held as adverse feelings. Yet, they have a happier side if you allow them to grow into gratitude.

I have learned that my obligations lead me to feel grateful for my free will to spend time with those I chose to experience life with. I feel thankful that I’m able to afford this life and to share a meal, gift, or time with others. I am grateful when others chose to spend their precious time adding to my memory bank.

I look forward to a season free of obligations, expectations, and assumptions because I’ll be too busy soaking in and sharing my excitement and gratitude.

©️2019 Alison Schuh Hawsey