The Christmas season is known for being full of friends, family, and joy. But it isn’t that for everyone. Christmas is supposed to be an amazing time particularly for kids, but sometimes harsh realities take that away from them.

To all the kids who live with financial hardship during Christmas...

I know it isn’t easy to go back to school and hear everyone talking about what they got. In middle school hallways after the break you’ll see students showing off their new iPhone or saying they got a thousand dollars from Grandpa. In the high schools, you have some students that work for all of their things. They buy their own Christmas presents, but then they see other people getting Jeeps and Kylie Jenner lip kits and those True Grit pullovers. If that’s you, please don’t let everyone else get in your way of enjoying what you have. Lasting happiness does not come from material goods.

To all the kids who grieve the loss of loved ones during Christmas...

You are not alone; I walk through this too. Although it feels like every other person you see, has a large, loving, happy family that celebrates Christmas together- that is not the case. You are not the only one that hears echoes through the house where laughter used to be. Things change. People change. Lives change. But you are complete in who you are, and God has a plan behind who is still here and who is not. There are so many people in your life that deserve your love, and focusing on the one who can’t be here is wasting that. Your loved one you are missing wants you to be happy.

To the kids who have families that fight during Christmas...

Too many kids attend two different Christmas gatherings due to having a family split by divorce. Too many kids end up being caught in the middle of fights between their parents. To those kids, please do not let their fighting take away from what would be a relaxing, peaceful break. If you can, spend some time away from the house, or take a step out when your family starts going at it. It’s not your fault and you don’t deserve to listen to it.

To everyone that typically has a good, wholesome Christmas season...

Try and make an effort to help those around you that might not be experiencing that. Everyone encourages giving during the holidays, but take a good look at who really needs what you have to give. I may have financial struggles of my own but I always have what I need, and that’s more than others can say. With that in mind, I always try and give to someone around me that I know is in need. My friends that are well-off don’t need more clothes or accessories or whatever I give them, but a gas or visa card can go a long way for a coworker or friend that could use it. Also if you do have a family that is well-off, please don't post all of your gifts. Try to avoid bragging in front of those that may not have what you do.

Inviting people over that don’t have much family or live away from family is great. It also would be a good idea to hang out with the friends that have families who are fighting. They may need to get away from it during the long break.

Overall, to the kids who struggle during the holiday season, know that Jesus, too, was born into an imperfect world. He, too, had humble beginnings. Make it a point to appreciate the people and blessings you have around you, instead of what you’re missing. To those that have a lovely holiday season, please spread that joy!