Christmas, the season of peace and joy: sometimes, the peace and joy seem elusive. We have too much to do. Or we have old family wounds. Or we are dreading another year of non-stop driving from the afternoon of December 24th, and all day on 
Christmas. Going between all the broken and rebuilt families can be stressful, even if everyone is on their best behavior, (which they aren’t always.)
Everyone longs for the peace and joy that this season of Jesus’ birth promises us. Here at the Ruth Institute, we offer a Recipe for Peace. No matter what may be going on in your life, we think you can contribute to create an atmosphere of peace within your own families, work places and circles of friends.
Here is our plan to create a Recipe for Peace.
Have you ever participated in a cookie exchange? Everyone bakes a batch of their favorite Christmas cookies. Everyone gets together at church or at someone’s house. I bring my chocolate chip cookies. Annie brings cranberry date bars. Nick brings Elves’ Cookies. Rob brings oatmeal cookies. Justin brings gingerbread cookies. Jennifer brings fudge. Robin brings a Christmas yule log. Judith brings coconut macaroons.
Each person gets a fresh plate, and takes one treat from each person’s plate. When you go home, you have a delicious variety of cookies to share with your family. And you only had to bake one batch!
Our family at the Ruth Institute would like to share our “cookies:” bits of advice and encouragement. We will be posting ideas for overcoming negative self-talk, handling challenging situations, and creating a place of peace for ourselves and those around us.
We invite you to visit our Facebook page over the next few weeks. You can post a festive or funny photo, or add words of advice and encouragement. You will find that you are not alone, no matter what your situation may be.
We hope you will be ready for Christmas Day with a recipe for Peace!
Visit the Ruth Institute Facebook page to participate in the Recipe for Peace!
