Maybe the gift of silence is what this year's holiday is really about. The gift of silence can restore the mystic within an unbelieving soul. Given the opportunity, the peace and stillness this Christmas Eve can restore something even more beautiful: our innocence.

This season, we can give ourselves the gift of embracing our hearts in silence. Our crowded thoughts come from a crowded heart. Taking time to enjoy silence is time for the simple beauty of life.

The elderly woman was about to leave with her bagged items, and the conveyor belt was moving. I quickly reached into my wallet, took out a 10-spot, and touched the elderly woman on her arm. "Excuse me, ma'am, I think you dropped this."

When situations or people challenge us, we need to identify that we're angry, confused, or frustrated. If we acknowledge that we're likely to make poor decisions in these states, it's easier to find the motivation to let these emotions go.

Harkening back to the heart of Christmas in 1869, time spent with loved ones was the treasured centerpiece. This year, I hope to rejoice in the essence of a season that celebrates and strengthens our family ties alongside the humanity we can so easily extend to one another.

For Santa is more than just a jolly old guy in a red outfit. A true yogi is someone who displays wisdom and compassion, and Santa is an excellent example. He sees everyone as his family, is always helping others, and he cares about you whether you're naughty or nice.

That's no small achievement, even if it happens just some of the time. Looking back that may be one of the most satisfying ways by which you measure your life. In that spirit, let's take every opportunity to support others in savoring this holiday.

Don't let your inner Scrooge short-change what should be one of the happiest times of the year. Make an inner decision -- a heart commitment -- that you're going to do things differently this year.

When we take 100 percent responsibility for what is happening inside of us, miracles happen. We find it easy to be grateful because we have transformed dislike into compassion.

What exactly are you incredulous about? People being themselves. Exactly as they've always been, year after year. Why is it so hard to live with the way people are? Because we can't accept it. Because we want them to be different. Surprise! They are still the same. Surprise again! So are we.

Much of the quality of our lives depends on how we react to what were aware of in life. Every moment we face the choice to either allow our negative emotions to distort how we treat others or let the free flow of love, goodness, and acceptance bathe others with spiritual blessings.

By doing your own inner work to become an emotionally responsible, kind and loving person with yourself and your partner, you can create a healthy, loving relationship!

Remember the oxygen mask and get your needs taken care of first. Take exquisite care of yourself as the foundation for taking care of others. This is the only way you can be emotionally available for your patients and your family and avoid even deeper levels of burnout.

To let go and fall into the arms of silence carries us into the sweetness of surrender. It is to become a master in the humble art of living.