After a lapse of three years, a peaceful environment has been created for people of Sri Lanka to meaningfully celebrate the traditional New Year this time around.
Last year brought about mixed results and feelings within the given operating environment. The risk of the Covid-19 pandemic fading away gave us new hope but the economic crisis and related social unrest created shock waves to a point that most thought that Sri Lanka’s economy was beyond repair.
However, whatever some people may say depending on their own biases, the majority – mainly the intelligent lot - are happy with restoration of peace and partial stability of the economy giving us hope of recovery in the medium to long term.
Life doesn’t end with one day’s celebrations. On the other hand life is short. How meaningfully can we spend this holiday season to make our lives better and help others to achieve the same for the long term?
Change
While all what we have been doing in connection with Avurudu are important, We also need new perspectives, insights, ideas, energy, motivation, time and lots of other intangible things that can’t be bought off the shelf to make our lives more fulfilling.
Happiness is in the hearts and minds of people, not in materials. It shouldn’t limit itself to traditional holidays or statutory holidays. It can sometimes be found on the most ordinary of Mondays.
Sometimes it just blows in like a swallow in December.
Sometimes when you want it most you can’t have it. And sometimes you’re up to your elbows. The holidays do not have to remain rigidly the same, year after year. By opening yourself up to change and letting go of traditions that have become too difficult or expensive, you afford yourself an opportunity to shape your holiday experience to reflect your current lifestyle and personality and learn something for the future.
By nature we expect everyone to change - talk about why others are wrong - criticise what others do. Let’s be determined this year to reflect on who I’m and go through transformation to be a better version of you – to be loved and respected for your contribution to make others happy.
Reunite
We keep blaming the politicians for party politics they do. But the very same people who blame the politicians are divided too.
For us to build a sustainable country voters need to move away from party politics and vote on the merits of the parties and individuals at that moment of time taking into consideration the policies suggested and their credibility based on past performance.
People need to keep evil feelings, jealousies and attacking moods away and come together for the sake of the country. We need to re-embrace and nurture the best of human values.
Holidays are good for people to reflect on themselves and ask if I’m good?If I’m right?In the first place. It gives you space to go deep dive and realise things that you wouldn’t otherwise realise.
It’s what holidays are really about – the chance to ‘reload your human values’. So a gathering of friends is always a nice surprise to spring on someone – forgive and forget bad acts.
The holiday season is typically a time when extended family members spend more time together. Leaving normal routines, hectic travel, and decreased personal space can all lead to conflict with the family members you ironically, want to enjoy.
Also take time to offer and receive feedback - exchange ideas – mentor others or be mentored by someone who has something to offer you.
There is no better opportunity than the holiday season to interact with people with an open mind. Enjoy doing what you like to do but also find time to try what I have advocated.
I’m sure you will discover new ways of improving your life while helping others with your new insights. This would offer sustainable happiness vs. a gift offering instant happiness. Good balance between the two may be a good start.
Plan to spend the holidays meaningfully, and to celebrate the New Year and enjoy the holidays.