Reconnect and Reflect: The Gift of Thoughtfulness This Holiday Season

By Diane Landsberg

The holidays are fast approaching, and I started a list and a timeline to keep track of purchasing gifts, planning gatherings, and scheduling those busy days ahead. As I searched for the perfect holiday cards (yes, I still send them!), I found myself dusting off my address book. Opening it, I saw names of people I hadn’t heard from in the past year. I knew right away that I would send them a card with a personal note. This sparked an idea for what to write about for this issue.

Consider reconnecting with people you haven’t spoken to recently—without any expectations, just with a sense of kindness and hope. Accept that they may not respond as you’d hoped, but know that you’ve planted a seed of love and goodwill.

Many of us have lost touch with friends or family over time. You may be tempted to think it’s been too long and dismiss the idea of reaching out. But old friends can become new friends again if you just make the effort to reconnect.

Sometimes the distance was due to a disagreement—maybe even something small and petty. The best gift you could give this holiday season might just be forgiveness. Letting go of anger and negative feelings can be a true gift, not just for them but also for yourself. By choosing forgiveness, you allow yourself to heal and move forward, proving to yourself that you are a good person capable of growth.

Forgiving doesn’t mean forgetting or lowering your boundaries regarding the situation. It simply means releasing the hurt, especially if you realize there’s a void where that person once was. Consider forgiveness as a gift to yourself, too. Take it slow, and you might be surprised to find they missed you as well, allowing the foundation for a new and mature connection.

There’s always a chance they may not respond or may not be open to reconnecting. But take the chance anyway. It’s a life lesson in maturity and growth. The excuse of an upcoming holiday is the perfect opportunity to recall a happy memory you once shared. Sometimes, a thoughtful gesture can be the most meaningful gift you give—to both of you. And best of all, it doesn’t add anything to your credit card debt!

Enjoy this holiday season and the kindness you send out into the world.