Every year without fail, someone asks, “Are you ready for Christmas?”
And every year, my soul leaves my body a little.
Ready? For Christmas?
Ma’am, sir, seasonal optimist — I am not even emotionally prepared for today. I haven’t answered emails from last week, my coffee is fighting for its life, and my to-do list is actively mocking me. Let’s not introduce tinsel into this situation.
December has the audacity to show up like a group project where everyone expects you to be festive, organized, generous, cheerful, and well-rested… simultaneously. Meanwhile, half of us are just trying to remember why we walked into the kitchen.
And can we talk about the pressure?
Decorate. Shop. Bake. Wrap. Smile. Be merry. Be grateful. Be holly-jolly while mentally budgeting, emotionally regulating, and pretending we didn’t forget someone’s gift again.
Here’s the truth no one says out loud:
Being “ready for Christmas” is a myth invented by people who don’t have anxiety, deadlines, or a realistic relationship with time.
Some of us are out here surviving on vibes, caffeine, and the hope that Amazon Prime comes through clutch. And that’s okay. You don’t need matching pajamas, color-coded wrapping paper, or a perfectly planned holiday itinerary to be doing just fine.
So if you see me looking festive but slightly feral, mind your business. I’m not behind — I’m pacing myself. Christmas will arrive whether I’m ready or not, just like Monday does, and I will emotionally show up when I can.
Until then, please stop asking if I’m ready.
I’m trying. I’m tired. And I’m one minor inconvenience away from becoming the Grinch — but with better boundaries.
No comments:
Post a Comment