The English word “edge” can have multiple meanings, as noted in the Merriam-Webster dictionary (2024). Meanings range from such terms as “border,” “brink,” or “force” to another viewpoint of the word - “advantage.” Positive or negative depending on the way the word “edge” is used. When I think of Christmas on the Edge, various scenes come to my mind. These include having limited means to celebrate Christmas, forces beyond one’s control, such as serious illness or family problems impacting Christmas celebrations in a negative way, or even being kept from the usual Yuletide traditions of one’s past due to a change. When I lived in East Africa with my family, new ways of celebrating Christmas were incorporated into previous traditions. Old traditions of celebrating were not thrown out. Rather we adapted to a new reality of Christmas in hot weather in a new place, with a culture and people group previously unknown to us. It all turned out beautifully, but beautifully different. Something very important in our lives changed - but - not everything changed. Reflecting on a Christmas with so many changes from the familiar, the following take-aways to my current life and situation - and maybe yours as well - come to mind. Change is neither negative or positive and it may not be the end of something, but the beginning of something better. Change requires adaptation, which if too much and/or not incorporated into the familiar, can be overwhelming. Maintaining grounding in the familiar is very helpful in successful adaptation to change.

It’s Christmas, a time when familiar traditions of the past come to mind. Even now, as you read this, are you recalling meaningful traditions which have brought you comfort and a peaceful, happy feeling? Are you in a time of change which threatens the stability which the familiar brings? Let’s talk about steps which can be taken to maintain grounding during change. First, it is usually helpful to take stock of what has changed and what has not. Thinking under stress can bring about all or nothing thinking, leading to a perception that all is lost. Maintaining awareness of what remains the same will help maintain stability. The key is to monitor perception and challenge all or nothing thinking. Secondly, what soothes you most when you have a case of “raw nerves,” ie feeling on the jagged edge of stability versus instability? Change can do that. For some, a time of quiet with a good book or music will make that edgy feeling go away. For others, it may be distraction through an activity or talking with a good friend. The key in a situation like this is – stop and soothe. Third, and the main point of my reflection, is to maintain an open approach to incorporating something new into that which is familiar.

I don’t know the unique situation of change you find yourself in this Christmas. But I do know you do not need to be the victim of change. One change is all it takes to make all the difference in an unsettled situation. The unsettledness of challenge to the familiar is what creates an opportunity for something better to come from the change. What opportunity for perspective awaits you, and how might a different perspective assist you in making your change outcome more positive? I invite you to check out Ottawa University for growth opportunity options in nursing education at https://www.ottawa.edu/nursing

Whatever it is you are facing this Christmas season in the way of a change from the familiar, I wish you the blessing of finding your way to a positive outcome.

Reference

Merriam Webster Dictionary (2024). Edge. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/edge