As Ive become older and busier, Christmas slips by ever faster.
As you grow older, you begin to see how much more complicated the world can be.
Recognizing the acceleration of time with each passing year, Ive adopted a method of slowing down the season.
I start a little earlier every year, before Dec. 1, so I can enjoy the lights and the tree even longer.
As a rule of thumb, youre at the cutting edge of early Christmas if you started decorating before the malls and department stores.
To get into the spirit, I start listening to my Christmas playlist before any local stations enter their all-Christmas-all-the-time zone.
I start watching my favourite Christmas DVDs before they are broadcast on TV.
In early December, we watched Elf, Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer and Santa Clause 2. This weekend, we plan to watch A Christmas Carol, the Alastair Sim version and the Disney version.
By now, you may already have heard Frosty the Snowman and Santa Claus is Coming to Town dozens of times this month.
You should know all the verses by heart so you might as well sing along especially when youre stuck in traffic, circling for a parking space or standing in a long line up.
The acceleration of time is not just a function of your age. The more things you have on your to-do list, the less time you have to work with.
At some point, we have to choose how we will spend our time. There are some events that are mandatory, such as the family Christmas dinner. Dont overcommit. In the spirit of slowing down and appreciating the spirit of the season, you have to learn to say no.
Slow down the season, and savour every moment.
Dr. Davidicus Wong is a physician and writer. Find his latest posts at facebook.com/davidicus.wong and davidicuswong.wordpress.com and his podcasts at wgrnradio.com.
