Let's start off stating that I am a bit (!) of a hermit - happiest in my sweats surrounded by my animal buddies either at my work table immersed in stones and metals or outside poking through the fields.  Although my day job involves tons of human interaction, I perfectly capable of happily going for days without talking to another human being.  Honest.

Holidays, combined with the families and friends in my life,  will not let me get away with that sort of behavior for long. This might be a good thing.  

When headed to a "command performance" gathering I can guarantee that anyone in earshot will hear far too much whining and grousing from me.  But afterwards, I always come away thinking that attending was the right thing to do.  I spent time with people I value and who value me. 

The next time you receive a "command performance" invitation, go with the realization that you were invited because the people who invited you wanted to spend their equally-precious time with YOU.    Your invitation is an honor.  You are valued.

So, I will change out of the sweats and run a comb through my hair and then go spend my precious time with my precious friends and family.  I hope you will, too.

Peace

Mary