Today we continue with a few more tips on how to enjoy the holidays

Develop and encourage a life of gratitude.

Gratitude is an attribute that transcends circumstances. No matter what your circumstances, there are always many reasons to be thankful in them. Your circumstances may never change, but your attitude toward them can change . . . and this can make all the difference.

As Muslims we don’t only give thanks on one particular day, but we thank Allah constantly and consistently.

Do something for someone else.

One of the ways we can demonstrate that we are grateful to Allah for His many blessings is to help others. Even if this has been a difficult year for you and your family, helping others will help you too, as your focus will move from your own circumstances into serving others. There are always people who can use a helping hand. So, enrich this holiday season for your family by getting involved in serving others.

Enjoy activities that are cheap or free.

There are many good holiday-related activities that will add to your family’s enjoyment that are either free or low-cost such as spending a day at a park, decorating your home together as a family, baking and cooking (braai-ing for the males), or playing indoor and outdoor games.

Enjoy a family holiday tradition.

Traditions provide opportunities to keep your family’s legacy going. They create meaningful memories. So from the silly to the sentimental, if your family has established certain holiday traditions, be sure to include them in your holiday activity plans, if possible.

Try something new.

Traditions are great, but sometimes families find themselves in a rut, celebrating the holidays in exactly the same fashion, year after year. This can result in your family experiencing a holiday funk. Think about finding a new way to celebrate the holiday season this year. You may just create a new tradition that will keep going for generations!