I honestly didn't know what to write about for this week. The stress of finals had been what I worried about the most and the article seemed to slip my mind. But I think what I came up with, though it may be simple, is still important. Christmas is a difficult time of year for a lot of people. It's strange because it seems like it should be the time of year in which we are the happiest and yet there can still be so much sadness that creeps in the background during the holidays. That's with good reason too. Some people are dealing with the loss of a loved one and not having his or her presence around during holiday festivities is like a void that can't be filled. Another huge cause of stress is the shopping. Who ever knows exactly what to get people anymore? And even if you do know, things pile up and become more and more expensive. It all gets very hectic and it seems hard to even focus on the true meaning of the holiday. Even the cold winter weather can get to some people. I know it does for me. I used to love to play in the snow when I was younger. Not matter how cold it was outside, I was usually in the snow, making my parents endure the blistering winds with me, making snow angels, having a snowball fight, or building the perfect snowman. Now the snow makes me feel a bit blue.

Yes, I do notice all of the heartache that can come along with this time of year. That is why I wanted to write this short message to all of you. This is not just to say merry Christmas or happy holidays. This is my way of wishing you and your families the best during this entire season.

No matter what festivities you join in, who you celebrate with, or where you spend time, I hope that you find some peace of mind.

Despite whether you are happy or sad throughout the holiday, I hope that someone will take care of you and lend you a shoulder to cry on if need be.

I hope that people are kind to you during this hectic time of year. In return, I hope that you are kind to others.

Receiving gifts is nice, but I hope that you find just as much joy in giving gifts as well.

I hope that you take some time out of your busy schedules to appreciate all of the love and creativity people put into their decorations. No matter what season or celebration is taking place, decorations make everything so lively and festive. Even the simplicity of going out just to view Christmas lights is very relaxing.

Speaking of relaxing, I hope you find some time to relax yourselves. Take as much time to care for yourself as possible. That is not a bad form of selfishness. You only have one life and one body so you might as well treat it with respect.

I can't say that everyone will be home for Christmas. I wish that was the case though. As I mentioned previously, I hope you may find peace of mind no matter where you are.

Most importantly, I hope you are able to notice the significance of the true meaning behind the holiday season.