Day 16: Sacred Traditions Advent Calendar
Embrace your imperfections.
Hello friends,
The Sacred Art of Embracing Imperfection
Today’s sacred tradition is inspired by Lise-Lotte Design’s December Creativity Challenge. Yesterday’s prompt was: A Connection to Someone Who Has Taught You Something Helpful.
It’s hard to choose just one person—so many people have shaped my life. But for this season, my thoughts keep returning to my Grandma. She was one of my greatest teachers and left a lasting impression on my life. Let me explain why...
My Grandma was a perfectionist, and she taught me everything I know about striving for perfection. Each Christmas, I’d help her wrap presents. It wasn’t just wrapping—it was an art form. The paper had to be cut precisely, edges straight, seams invisible, and perfectly aligned. Seams always met at the edge of the box, never in the middle. I’m pretty sure she wrapped a few of these holiday presents!
Looking back, I see how these moments planted the seeds of perfectionism in me. While I cherish those memories, I’ve realized how that belief in “getting it just right” has often paralyzed me, keeping me stuck or hesitant to move forward.
But this holiday season, I’ve given myself a precious gift: the permission to embrace imperfection.
These days, my gift wrapping is far from meticulous. In fact, it’s a little chaotic—a playful nod to the rebel in me. I’ve let go of unfinished plans, like the handmade holiday cards I dreamed of slow-stitching. My home is a bit cluttered, the Christmas tree only half-decorated, and my craft room is bursting with materials. And you know what? I’m okay with all of it.
So, here’s my confession: I am a recovering perfectionist!
Letting go of the need to be perfect has been freeing. It has allowed me to focus on what truly matters in the moment and to feel lighter and happier. I know I’ll still face challenges, but I’m learning to greet them without the heavy weight of perfectionism holding me back.
Your Invitation:
Is there something you can let go of this holiday season that might bring you more joy? Perhaps an obligation or tradition you don’t really enjoy, or a small imperfection you could embrace? If, like me, you’ve felt burdened by the need to get everything “just right,” try letting it go. You might be surprised by how much lighter and more meaningful your holidays feel.
In letting go, you create space—space for connection, fun, laughter, and perfectly imperfect moments. Oh my gosh, look at those perfectly hung icicles on the Christmas tree!!!
Wishing you a season filled with joy, love, and a beautiful kind of imperfection!
"Your imperfections are marks of authenticity, and that is the beauty of you."
– Isaac Fowler
Hello Laurie, I'm so happy that today's reminder was timely. I love that you find calm in those creative moments--I do too.
I can sure relate to chaos. I've 'tried' to declutter my office for days. Funny how chaos like this has the ability to rock our calm, at least it does mine.
I hope you have that candlelit shower. Light a candle, turn off the light and let the water wash away your troubles. It's magic.
I love that you're following along.
Warmly,
Kathy
Todays reminder couldn’t have come at a more perfect time! My cookie,confection,bread, delicious evening supper plans are only half met. I was starting to lament! Sigh. I am feeling just this side of crying. I was once so very organized. Sigh.
I am very much appreciating your Advent Calendar daily suggestions.
The words I set for my intentions for the season are Beauty and Calm. I remind myself the chaos in my bedroom is for the beautiful decorating in the rest of the house and seeing the beauty in the humble yet very noble bay tree branches I’ve used instead of holly or pine.
The calm is in the moments of that zen like feeling that happens when I am baking or cooking, delighted at finding the perfect gift for someone or folding the 1,000 paper cranes I am working on for a very unwell beloved.
The shower with a candle sounds about right just now!