There’s no such thing as a PERFECT
Christmas or New Year’s.
Stop seeking the elusive.
Muster the courage to enjoy whatever little
glimpses
or joys or beauties there may be.
How have your circumstances changed since last Christmas?
Drastically? Incrementally?
For the better, or not?
As we go about our business, it might
be easier on those we care about if we realised that Christmas and holidays are
not always jolly celebrations.
We know people for whom this is likely
to be their last Christmas. They may be aware of it, or those closest to them
may be harbouring that thought. It will cast a shadow, to some degree, over how
they go about these next days and weeks.
Others are eager for the holidays to be
behind us all because they feel they have little to celebrate this year. Losses
have changed things for them in ways we may not consider as wish them a Merry
Christmas.
1.) Celebrations are good.
2.) Lives and losses worth grieving are good too.
Those "good" things may
not be obviously or easily compatible.
Let's Handle With Care those we care
about.
Struggling through Christmas?
Plan ahead!
If you know Christmas is going to be
difficult for you this year, make a plan now to make it as survivable as
possible.
You may not
be able to get home, or you may have a broken relationship, or have lost
a dear loved one, or just can't cope with the hubbub of big groups. You may be
in the dog box or have no money to do anything special or have kids who are
celebrating with their other parent.
I remember
sitting at an intersection in tears one Christmas, knowing I was welcome
several places, but not feeling at home in any of them.
It happens. Holidays are not always jolly-days.
Some
options:
You can find
ways to cocoon yourself and ignore the whole thing, though that will mean
little or no access to TV, internet or radio. One friend considered going to
a country where Christmas wasn't celebrated! You could get enough books or
videos to last 2-3 days. Plan healthy snacks with a few special nibbles.
Another
option might be to involve yourself in a project
you enjoy and want to do anyway. Get out those paints, that puzzle, book or
toolbox . . . glue gun, knitting needles, sewing machine or model airplane.
You have to plan
ahead though. Make sure you have all the supplies
you'll need so as not to add to your frustration on the day.
Read more and or download a pdf to share with friends.
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