Christmas Can Be Meloncholy

Every year I find myself thinking about how for many, the holidays are not a truly joyous time of year.

For those who have lost a loved one. This may be the first holiday season trying to navigate traditions with a very noticeable void. Or perhaps it’s been years and Christmas is a time of year where someone is particularly missed.

For those who are suffering from addiction, or suspect they have an addition. At a time of year when it seems like alcohol and parties are constantly present. And I suspect that for many, declining to participate brings its own set of challenges.

For those who are estranged from their family, or who don’t enjoy being around certain family members, or who feel pulled in a million different directions. For those who feel alone. At a time of year when the expectation is that you’re surrounded by the ones you love.

And for those who feel the pressure to deliver this amazing, magical Christmas for their children and do not have the budget to do so.

I’m not sure what I can do about any of this, even though I wish I could. But I do think it’s helpful to keep in mind as we interact with each other. As the saying goes, you never know what is happening on the inside corners of people’s lives. Be kind.