WONDERING IF YOU WILL MAKE IT THROUGH CHRISTMAS?

 This time of the year can bring about a dichotomy of reactions to the huge celebrations going on around us.  There is a large range of emotions associated with Christmas.  If you are fortunate enough to have only experienced the joy and wonder of it all, come back tomorrow.  This post will not interest you.  If you have walked through the black hole of depression, the winding path of grief, or any of the other sad, mad, or bad experiences of trying to get through the season, read on.  This one is for you.




If you live long enough,  you will experience that first Christmas without a dear loved one.  Long before the day comes, you begin to wonder how in the world you will live through this day.  Many are estranged from loved ones or have loved ones spread all over the world---how do you navigate that gaping hole?  On this seemingly most important holiday, family is emphasized more than any other time during the year, and yet some are totally alone.  We all get together only to discover dysfunction still rules the day when it comes to families uniting  All of the preparation can be overwhelming---in a world already filled with daily chaos.  Stress and exhaustion can come to reside in your body and mind with a choking grip on seeing true reality.  We become so consumed with what the world tells us about this holiday, that we fail so see reality.  We are standing firm with our feelings and ignoring certain truths.  Here are a few of the things which have helped me step back and remember what this holiday is really all about.


SERVICE for others is always the key to a reality check.  When you see the effects of poverty, isolation, or illness on lives, you quickly clue in to how blessed you are.  This is NOT the most wonderful time of the year for those who are generationally poor, for those suffering with chronic or terminal illness, or those either out surviving their circle or those abandoned for various reasons to name just a few.  Quit looking at your "Blessed Neighbor" and see those we tend to look right through.  So many need help.


SEEK SUPPORT from all those in your life who are more than happy to step up and walk beside you.  Relationships are the key to survival in so many areas, but especially during times of huge loss, deep depression, or overwhelming stress.  Ask a friend to go see a movie or have dinner, invite a neighbor over for coffee, take a drive to look at the holiday lights with a child in your life.  Do NOT stay isolated.  Isolation is our worst enemy in those times of our greatest needs.


EXERCISE to keep those good juices flowing in your brain and body.  How many times have I taken a Christmas Eve and/or Christmas Day walk?  Walking always clears my head and reminds me of the wonders of creation.  Having a bad day--take a walk/run/ride--it is a sure remedy to the blues.


Every good speaker knows to make three points and quit.  I will say there are more ways to fight the holiday blues, but these three will certainly get you over the hump.  BOTTOM LINE---I have learned one great truth----

IT IS ONLY ONE DAY

Twenty Four hours and the world quickly goes back to normal (is there any such thing?)  You will survive---you will get through the day---and many of us care deeply for you and understand what your are feeling.  Hang in there and keep doing the next right thing!





4 comments

  1. I have been reading your posts, but not commenting...honestly...the grief is just sort of raw right now...but I want you to know, you have touched my heart with the truthfulness you bring/write. Thank you Lulu.

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    1. Praying for you, My Friend! It doesn’t sound like much, but God is reminded when we pray of our love & compassion for each other. He is pleased and honors our prayers. He also is standing in the gap at times you don’t even realize it. Love you, Friend & Praying!

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  2. Christmas is, for so many of us, a bittersweet time, Lulu, as we think about people we shared this holiday with in the past who are no longer with us. You have made some great suggestions for how to deal with those feelings. Thank you and Merry Christmas!

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  3. I am always talking to myself, Martha!
    Merry Christmas, Friend!

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Your comments keep my writing and often cause me to think. A written form of a hug or a pat on the back and an occasional slap into reality---I treasure them all!