Reflection: Holiday Blues

One thing we don't talk about is Holiday Blues.  It's an unwritten rule that people must be jolly during the Christmas season.  What if you aren't feeling jolly?  How are you supposed to act during the happiest time of the year? 

I'm a pretty jolly person, because some years it can be really tough for me.  I lost my mum six years ago and the last time I really spent time with her was at Christmas.  The holiday was a big deal in our home.  Even the bathrooms were fully decorated.  Nothing made my mum happier than being able to spread Christmas cheer to her friends and neighbors. 

Some years, I just want to be a humbug.  I want to curl up and watch nonstop Hallmark movies, eat lots of unhealthy snacks, and lock out the world.  Once you've experienced years of magical Christmases, it's really difficult to go back to mediocre. 

How do we help the humbugs in this world?  We give them space to breathe and work through their emotions.  We let them know that we are nearby should they need a shoulder to cry on.  Sometimes, this is the only thing we can do. 

Here's to a holiday season of grace, kindness, and friendship.