Limbo-land by Mandy Eve-Barnett
We all know the strange limbo-land between Christmas and New Year. A land of past and future. The Christmas celebrations are over, but memories remain. The glitz of the holiday décor is still shining, but with an absence of gifts and anticipation. Leftover meals are the norm – turkey this and that – accompanied with moans of ‘not again!’ echoing over the dining table. Half boxes of chocolates and sweet cookies scatter tables and shelves, tempting some to taste, while others resist. Gifts are put away, to use, or keep for another day. We think on our excesses – too much alcohol, too much food, too many treats partaken. Pine needles fall as the tree begins to whither, needles prickling under foot, falling into crevices, and appearing for months to come. The hustle and bustle, frantic preparations and worry, vanish leaving us with a feeling of anticlimax and tiredness. We slouch on the sofa, watch mindless shows feeling at a loss and lethargic after so much activity. Some may use this time to reorganize, restock, renew, while others feel undecided and aimless.
As we languish in this limbo-land feeling heavy and worn, gradually a spark begins to form. A new celebratory opportunity awaits. Party plans are made, and excitement builds again as family and friends look forward to a New Year. The stroke of midnight is filled with kisses, hugs and new promise. We once again find new purpose and are full of possibilities, goals, tasks and ideas. Expectations are high for a new year, a new start, a new you – everything is possible. We pack away the decorations letting the house breath again with a lightness and uncluttered space. We may be missing the glitter and sparkle but find satisfaction in a fresh home. It gives us the opportunity to begin with a clean slate as we go forward into uncharted country – a New Year.
Did you enjoy your Christmas & New Year celebrations in this half-life existence we are experiencing?
Do you make goals for the New Year? Care to share yours?
Mandy Eve-Barnett's Blog for Readers & Writers 