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As a peace (alternative dispute resolution) practitioner, my sole responsibility is to empower people to bring peace within themselves and with one another. I’ve been called a miracle worker and appreciated by many in my field. My struggle, naturally, is to obtain and maintain peace within myself. There are many days that I feel pulled 10 different ways. My mom, like her dad (my grandfather) was a straightforward, no-nonsense woman. And, whenever I had an ailment or trouble, she’d advise me to “psyche” yourself out of it. “Yes, but Mom, I just got hit in the nose with a baseball bat!” What I did not realize was my mom was telling me so much more in those years. Use your mind to create a different space for yourself. Empower yourself to create the necessary change within. My mom was such a strong and resilient human being! So, as I approach the holidays with family and friends, I will bask in the abundant love and good cheer, and, if conflict should arise, I will just psyche myself out of it! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to All!

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Ahhh...pulled in 10 different ways...

You are also a strong, resilient soul! I think the difference between us and the way we have raised our "kids" is that we encourage them to feel their feelings and then work toward a different space. Tea Time is a MUST here soon. Thank you, Jocelind. We were fortunate to have mothers who taught us so much.

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My mother’s advice was “Let it go” but I think she over-used this approach. I believe in letting the mad out so it can be dealt with and then it’s over. Then I can let it go....the issue can leave me.

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Yes, that was my mother's advice too and I totally agree with you! She too overused it too. We must let "the mad out" so there is room in us to deal with the anger/hurt and then "Let it go".

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Oh boy does that bring back memories. As a kid, I used to sing that song so loud and proud at "FolK" mass that my mother would cringe but I think she actually got a kick out of it.

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I am always trying to put positivity out into the world. I think your 'peace' equates to my 'positivity'. I know you will be at peace and so happy to have your girl home :)

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Peace and Positivity-can't go wrong with that combination!! Thank you, Mindy.

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Why would anyone attack you? Have you had bad experiences with this?

I'm always looking for more ways to be peaceful. I quit doing the Christmas stuff years ago because it was soooo stressful. Some people really enjoy decorating their homes for the holidays. It brings them great joy to go through their ornaments and lovingly place them on the tree and reflect on the memories they contain. I decided years ago it was too much work and it stressed me out too much. So, no tree, no lights, no decorations, just a few presents shoved into gift bags.

I will make cranberry orange nut bread for friends. I will make chex mix. I will make cookies. I will make a nice meal for everyone to enjoy on Christmas day. I do what makes me happy. You know the old saying, If Mama's happy, then everybody's happy. And we have a peaceful household.

Wishing everyone a peaceful and happy holiday season.

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Yep-you have to do what works for you! Super important. Having a peaceful household is a beautiful thing. Oh, no "attacks" on this site-on others.

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Enjoy your time with your sweet girl! Wishing you lots of peace and joy this season and always!

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Thank you, Maura! Is your whole gang going to be at home this Holiday Season? I so enjoy all your photos of the joy you share with them. It's inspiring.

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That is so sweet! Hopefully, they are good memories. I changed the wording in school (public school teaching) to be non-religious. Everything was funnier in church because you couldn't laugh!

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My peaceful plan is to write. When I am angry or agitated or disappointed, I pull out my pen or my notes app and ask myself, “Why am I ____?” Naming the thing helps me let go of it. And usually the source of my discomfort is my own unmet expectations. The older I get the more I learn to release my expectations and wait with open hands for whatever surprises the day holds for me.

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