Christmas is often called the most wonderful time of the year, marked by smiling faces, excitement in the air, and celebratory gatherings. Yet for those dealing with emotions like grief and loneliness, the Christmas season can be very difficult. I am one of those people this year. I lost my mom and have dealt with a lot this year and, if I’m honest, I’m just not feeling it!
Maybe you’ve lost a loved one this year as I have. Maybe your marriage has fallen apart. Maybe you are a long way from family. Maybe you’re longing for marriage and a family of your own. Maybe you’re facing trauma, stress, or anxiety for other reasons. All of these things can make surviving the holiday season very challenging.
So, what can you do to make it through the holidays? Here are 5 suggestions:
- Remember the reason for the season
The true reason for the season is celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ our Savior. He gave us the greatest gift of love that has been or will ever be given. Focusing on this truth will help to shift your perspective.
“A child is born to us! A son is given to us! And he will be our ruler. He will be called, ‘Wonderful Counselor,’ ‘Mighty God,’ ‘Eternal Father,’ ‘Prince of Peace.’
Isaiah 9:6
- Set healthy boundaries
You don’t have to force yourself to face every holiday event or celebratory tradition. If attending a holiday event is likely to bring about painful memories, be willing to say no.
- Serve others
Performing acts of kindness for others and giving back to the community can be really good for the soul. You could consider donating gifts to families in need, serving meals at a soup kitchen, or volunteering at a community event. - Create new traditions
Get creative and do something a little out of the ordinary this year. You can also alter old traditions and make them fit better with the new phase in your life. One tradition that I won’t be changing is not cooking during the holidays. LOL
- Focus on what you are grateful for
It can be difficult to focus on being grateful when you are struggling but we all have something or someone to be grateful for. Lately, I have been reflecting on 5 things that I’m grateful for at the start and end of each day. Usually Jesus, coffee and dogs come up and sometimes my husband and kids make an appearance.😊 Gratitude can help to shift your perspective in a positive way.
Remember that God understands you feel and will help you through. He has been there for you in the past and will walk beside you this holiday season.
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:7
Leslie! Love this ! I have enjoyed reading this and the scripture that you included ! Yes with losing my mother this year and this being the first holidays without her is definitely a struggle. Staying close to God and family having faith and praying has really helped me along ! I really enjoyed reading this. It’s great !