Kindling the Spirit During the Holidays: Especially for Women (re-post)

In her 1991 book,Women, Anger, and Depression, Lois P. Frankel discussed the need for women to nurture themselves. In her later book, Kindling the Spirit: Acts of Kindness and Words of Courage for Women, published in 1994, she gives 160 ideas for acts of self-kindness that women can give themselves.

From the back cover: "Quotations from historical and contemporary women provide an inspirational frame for each kind act, guiding you on the path to self-kindness. This book gives every woman the means to replenish her well and take responsibility for her own spirit."

I have chosen some kind acts and quotes from Frankel's collection that seem appropriate for this time of year. I do believe that if we take the time to "replenish our wells," we can face the busy-ness of this time with much more equanimity and even joy. I hope you will take time for yourself this holiday season.

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Pick or buy a flower, place it prominently in you home and experience the wonder of nature's beauty each time you look at it.

When you take a flower in your hand and really look at it, it's your world for the moment. --Georgia O'Keefe

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Take time to enjoy one accomplishment today instead of rushing on to the next task waiting to be done.

Life isn't a matter of milestones, but of moments. --Rose Kennedy

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Spend a half hour lost in your dreams (or prayer, or meditation--a.h.).

Women have never had a half hour in all their lives (except before or after anybody is up in the house) that they can call their own, without fear of offending or hurting someone. --Florence Nightingale

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Take a bath and feel the relaxation that comes from immersing yourself in something other than the day's problems.

There must be quite a few things that a hot bath won't cure, but I don't know many of them. --Sylvia Plath, from her novel, The Bell Jar

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And for certain social situations, a bit of advice:

Answer only those personal questions with which you are comfortable, and pass on those you are not.

To frivolous questions silence is ever the best answer. --R.M, Live Within Compasse in Humilitie

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(I find it interesting that Lois Frankel went on to write books about how women can succeed at business and finance. Her latest title, published this year: See Jane Lead: 99 Ways for Women to Take Charge at Work.)

My very best wishes to you for a happy, relaxing and spirit-filled holiday time.