The wind is howling, and I can hear it though the windows are shut tight. I’ve silenced the TV because it’s been a long day, and I can’t bear any more superfluous noise. My phone is continously chirping like a bird, though, because my husband and children have all left the house and can’t seem to wait until they return home to talk to me. The lights on the Christmas trees twinkle and glow while the images on the muted TV flicker on the screen.

I’m used to silence. I enjoy it. In fact, I thrive in quiet, alone time. But recently, my life has become a constant whir of chaotic noise that I can’t shut off. It leaves me drained, sapped of energy and creativity. In addition, it has zapped me of any glimmer of Christmas spirit.