A Perry Como Christmas: Life before IoT – Turning Off the Screens and Turn On Life
There’s something about Christmas that brings a longing for simpler times, when families gathered without distractions and the warmth of togetherness was all we needed. Perry Como, with his velvet voice and timeless holiday classics, seemed to capture the magic of those moments—moments we can still create if we’re willing to take a small, bold step this season. Turn off the screens. Yes, you heard it right. Let this blog be the last flicker of blue light you engage with for the next few days. Put down the phone, close the laptop, and turn off the TV. It’s time to connect with your loved ones, face to face, heart to heart, without the filter of a screen or the shorthand of a text.
The Gift of Presence
In a world buzzing with notifications, being present has become a rare gift. This Christmas, make the effort to sit with family and friends, look into their eyes, and truly listen. No emojis, no hastily typed messages, just real, unfiltered emotions. When was the last time you had a conversation without glancing at your phone? The holidays are the perfect time to rediscover the beauty of uninterrupted connection.
If you’re fortunate enough to have loved ones nearby, invite them over for a meal, a game night, or just a simple chat by the fire. If distance separates you, opt for a video call. Seeing a loved one’s smile and hearing their laughter in real time is infinitely more fulfilling than scrolling through a highlight reel on social media.
Health and Heart: The Real Christmas Priorities
Constant screen time isn’t just draining our social lives; it’s impacting our health. Studies show that too much digital interaction can increase anxiety, disrupt sleep, and strain our eyes and minds. By stepping away, even for a few days, you’re giving your body and soul a much-needed break.
Think about your life as it is right now. Are you spending more time creating digital memories than living real ones? This holiday season, choose to be present in the moments that matter. Whether it’s helping a child decorate a tree, sharing a heartfelt story with an elder, or simply savoring the quiet beauty of a winter evening, these are the moments that nourish the heart and build cherished memories.
For Those Spending Christmas Alone
The holidays can be a challenging time for those who find themselves alone. But solitude doesn’t have to mean loneliness. Take this time to reflect on your journey and be thankful for the gift of life. Celebrate your resilience and the progress you’ve made, no matter how small it may seem.
Remember, you are not defined by your past; you are a masterpiece in progress. As the saying goes, “Don’t look back; you’re not going that way.” Use this holiday to dream of brighter tomorrows and take steps toward the life you want to create. Volunteer at a local shelter, send handwritten letters to friends, or simply enjoy a quiet walk surrounded by the beauty of nature.
A Christmas Without Judgement or Resentment
The holidays can also stir up emotions we’d rather not face—regrets, grudges, or feelings of inadequacy. But what if we chose to let go? Let go of the resentment toward others and the harsh judgments we place on ourselves. The true spirit of Christmas is love—love for others and, just as importantly, love for ourselves. Be kind to yourself. Embrace your imperfections and acknowledge the beauty in your uniqueness.
Building Traditions That Last
Perry Como’s songs remind us of a bygone era when traditions were treasured. This year, start a tradition that involves real connection. Write letters to your future self or to loved ones. Cook a meal together as a family, each person contributing their favorite dish. Play board games, share old stories, or simply sit around and enjoy each other’s company without the interference of screens.
Traditions don’t have to be elaborate; they just need to be meaningful. And the best part? These moments don’t require a Wi-Fi connection—just a willingness to be present and engaged.
A Challenge for the Holidays
So here’s a challenge: Let this blog be the last bit of social media or online interaction you have until Christmas has come and gone. Instead of scrolling, call a friend. Instead of texting, visit someone. Instead of watching TV, watch the joy on your loved ones’ faces as you spend time together.
If you’re spending Christmas alone, take a break from the endless stream of curated lives on social media and focus on nurturing your own. Practice gratitude for what you have, and set intentions for what you hope to achieve in the coming year.
Moving Forward with Pride
As this year comes to a close, be proud of who you are and how far you’ve come. The holidays are not about perfection or material gifts; they’re about connection, love, and the simple joys of life. By turning off the screens and tuning into the people and moments that truly matter, you’re giving yourself and your loved ones the greatest gift of all: your presence.
So, as Perry Como’s warm voice might remind us, “There’s no place like home for the holidays.” Whether home is a bustling house filled with laughter or a quiet space of self-reflection, embrace it fully, and let the magic of Christmas fill your heart. Merry Christmas, and may your days be merry, bright, and full of genuine connection.
