The holidays in December are the time of the year that everyone has a short break from school and/or work. You have free time to enjoy the lights, music, food, and time with family and friends. We're flooded with festive colors and products, from Christmas decorations to festive cups at coffee shops. For those of us who are able to enjoy the festivities, it's hard to remember that there are people who can't.
Some people may have difficulty with just getting up in the morning and through each day. Being around people who are enjoying themselves can often make people question what's wrong with them, and holidays don't actually make them happy.
Other people may be having financial troubles and may be sad about not being able to give as much as they'd like. This can be particularly hard for parents.
Some people are away from home and are unable to see their families. Others may not be on good terms with their family. Both situations can be difficult and lonely.
For others, it may be the first holidays without their loved ones. People die everyday, some from natural causes, some in accidents, others in even more tragic incidents. Going through the grieving process can be confusing and emotionally exhausting. You want to be happy, but you feel guilty about those moments of joy and laughter. These feelings are especially magnified during the holidays which are traditionally spent with family and other loved ones.
The situations I've mentioned are very few compared to all of the things that could be going wrong for people this holiday season. People can be struggling in so many different ways that we are unaware of.
Enjoying the festivities when others aren't doing so is not something to feel bad about. It's hard to remember the bad when there is good to experience, but we should try harder to remember those who are having a hard time. Be considerate of the fact that maybe they aren't in a festive mood and don't tell them that they're messing up yours. They really aren't trying to do that.They don't want to stop you from enjoying your holidays.
Maybe you can help make their holidays better though. If they're having financial troubles, offer to help in any small way. If one of your friends is away from their family, invite them over to make sure they aren't alone. If someone lost their loved one, thinking of something comforting to say can be a challenge. A lot of the time, just validating their feelings and offering a hug is enough. Just be there. Being there for someone helps in ways that we just don't understand.
Don't forget what the holidays are supposed to be about. They're about counting our blessings and helping others. Be there for someone this holiday season.
