This Season, Start with You

December is finally here, and I had promised myself that by now my decorations would be up, twinkling, and ready for the season. Yet here I am, staring at the same unopened storage box that’s been sitting in the corner for weeks. Meanwhile, my neighbors’ homes are already glowing with beautiful displays that make me pause in admiration… and, if I’m honest, spark a little doubt about my own ability to keep up. And let’s not even get started on ordering gifts for everyone on my list.

But this year, I’m doing something different. Something I’ve never allowed myself to do before. I’m giving myself a gift. Not the practical kind, not the bargain kind, but something I’ve truly wanted. Something I’ve talked myself out of again and again because “the budget is tight” or “maybe next year.” This time, I’m choosing me. And the best part? My gift to myself will be the most expensive one of all, and I don’t feel one ounce of guilt. It’s right. I deserve it. I need it.

And dear reader, I want to encourage you to consider doing the same, focusing a bit more on yourself this Advent season. Not selfishly or indulgently, but in a way that strengthens you, nurtures you, and allows you to bring your best self into the world.

Christmas is a time of generosity and selflessness, a season when we pour ourselves out for others without expecting anything in return. But how can we give meaningfully when we’re exhausted, overwhelmed, or running on empty? How can we extend love when we haven’t taken a moment to receive it ourselves?

Jesus calls us to love one another, but He also asks us to love ourselves. That kind of love isn’t prideful; it’s grounding. It prepares us to be patient, compassionate, joyful, and present for the people around us.

So this year, permit yourself to slow down. To breathe. To say no when you need to. To treat yourself with the same gentleness and generosity you offer to everyone else. Do something that fills you up, whether it’s buying a gift you’ve been putting off, carving out quiet time, or simply giving yourself grace.

Because when you care for yourself well, you don’t just feel better, you give better. You love deeper. You shine brighter.

And that, more than any decoration or perfectly wrapped present, is what makes this season beautiful.

With love,

Blanche.