“No one has ever become poor by giving.”
Anne Frank
Jólabókaflód is something that we had the pleasure to learn about a few years ago. Basically, the Icelandic folks give books to their loved ones and friends on Christmas Eve so that they can spend the evening simply engaged in the act of reading. The word means “Christmas book flood.” Pretty amazing, right? The practice started during World War II when restrictions were imposed on imported giftware. The restrictions on paper were not nearly as harsh, so this birthed the tradition of giving the gift of written word. Even to this day it is considered an honor to receive a physical book, not an Ebook. Funny aside, one of the most popular books in Iceland is about Tractors. Not kidding.
Jólabókaflód is an aboslutely delightful tradition
Since discovering this absolutely delightful tradition, our family has engaged in Jólabókaflód for the past several years. Because we are a big family, we draw names and each person is assigned a family member to give what they think the other family member would enjoy reading. The time, the thought and the purpose is so amazing. Much more than just a random material gift that you are not quite sure will be to their liking. While we don’t have to practice Jólabókaflód as a Christmas tradition, we can however impart a little Jólabókaflód in the practice of everyday life.
Jólabókaflód can give someone some much needed cheer
We have an extended family member who is perpetually unhappy, he reminds me of a person that has the rain cloud that is always over them. They have no umbrella, they are soaked to the bone and do not want anyone’s help. Thank you very much! We were listening to him wax poetic about how he does not want to engage with people, they are just too complicated and not worth his time. They should come to him! He is so tired of planning gatherings and putting in the work without one single word of thanks! While I did not mind listening and hearing their point of view, I could not help but say, “Have you tried a little Jólabókaflód in your life? He stopped and looked at me and said, “Jolabokawhat?!” After a little laugh, I explained to him about the Icelandic tradition.
This tradition can be at any time of year
This tradition does not have to involve books, it does not have to be near Christmas. This practice could just be a way to give to others when you are focused on the hardships and daily doldrums of life. That gift can be a soul salve for someone in need of a boost. After a few minutes of thought (and our talk about the little gifts) my dear family member said, “You are right, I am going to try it..” It was then only a few days later that my family member decided to go to a neighbor who was suffering from cancer and offer to do their landscaping since they were struggling both financially and physically. He shared with us that this little act of helping another person made him realize just how blessed he was in his life. This was a delight to hear. Thoughtful acts are a wondrous gifts from heaven.
Jólabókaflód can help our mood
We all get in a mood, we all have moments. It is part of the dance of life, but a little Jólabókaflód goes a long way. Also, when you receive a Jólabókaflód, the best action that you can do is to accept that gift graciously. One theme that keeps running over and over in my head this year has been lookin beyond self. There are so many people who just need a kind word of acceptance. That may be their book in their life. Some need to know that they are prayed for. That might be the might volume of books in their lives. Some may need to know that you are willing to listen. That may be their book set of wide wisdom. Because in the words of Aesop, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”
A Little Poem about Jólabókaflód
Jólabókaflód, try saying that three times.
It is an interesting Icelandic phrase that involves an act that is indeed very kind.
It means Christmas book flood in English terms.
The practice is done on Christmas Eve and it brings great joy.
The Books are given to family members and friends.
After the books are opened the reading begins.
The reader reads with great joy on Christmas Eve with the thoughtful gift of what their loved one perceived, their reading preferences, their love of the written word, what a great a mindful gift to show that the love of the written word.
Start your own Jólabókaflód, make it a life goal.
Pass on a thoughtful gift or word of gratitude, I promise you this will change your whole mood.
To give to someone else, to practice empathy is a wonderful gift that will change you from the inside out. Just wait and see.
Find someone who needs a little Jólabókaflód and give them a meaningful gift.
Find them and give their soul and spirit a much needed lift.
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