Guest Post: The meaning of Christmas ...by Pat Walsh

 * The meaning of Christmas. *

What does it mean to you? A season to relax and enjoy or a time to be swamped by pressures and commercialization.

No pontificating or preaching here.

‘I'll protect you from the hooded claw
Keep the vampires from your door’

I urge you to just try to relax, be grateful for the ability to run at whatever pace and keep in touch with those around you.

A new pair of Vaporflys only puts pressure to run faster and a new Garmin gives you more statistics to perplex and depress you. Meeting a friend for an easy run might bring some fresh air, a chat, a cuppa and lots more benefits than any money can buy.

‘When the chips are down I'll be around
With my undying, death-defying love for you’

Money can’t buy you guaranteed health
It certainly can’t buy original hips and knees
Health is wealth, appreciate it
Could you put a price on going over a finish line
How much is a post race hug and cuppa worth
You don’t get a present of a finishers medal, you earn it
We have a new Greenway in East Cork that is free to use

We are not machines, think of us more as rechargeable batteries. Every now and then the levels are low and need a boost. This is a good a time as any. Also daylight is short and that can affect mood levels so try to get out as much as you can in daylight and take in the fresh air.

‘Let yourself be beautiful
Sparkling love, flowers
And pearls and pretty girls
Love is like an energy
Rushin' an' rushin' inside of me,’

Can you differentiate between what is important or what society has led you to believe is important. 
I urge you to slow down and take stock.
Make the contacts and keep in touch
Never be too old to enjoy the Christmas lights or pose for a silly picture
Smile, chat and brighten the world around you
The Power of Love

#pwr