Every Christmas I think about those who have a hard time rejoicing during the Christmas season. I myself have felt the Grinchiness of Christmas a few times. And havnt each one of us felt that pressure for a perfect Christmas...the decorating, the cooking , the cleaning, spending too much money, not finding the perfect gift. Those are just some of the pressures that face all of us. Now what if you are feeling the pain of the loss of a loved one? What if you have lost your job? What if you just cant see the happiness in a season that has always been so sad for you?
YOU ARE NOT ALONE!, Feeling sad at Christmas time is perfectly normal. Not everyone is filled with joy at Christmas time. And for some trying to hide that Christmas sadness and put on a "Merry" face is hard work and can make you feel more alone.
These are a few of the things that I think would help get those Grinches through the season.
- Start early so you dont have all those last minute pressures.
- Get exercise.. I think it helps with the shorter days and colder weather.
- Find a way to help someone needy.
- Spend time with children.
- Try to plan shopping trips on least busy days
- Start new traditions and ditch some that cause you stress.
- Stick to a budget
- Bag your gifts instead of wrapping.
- Dont over induldge on food and drink.. for some that just sets up more guilt.
- Light a candle for a loved one or a situation that is causing you grief.
- Attend a Blue Christmas service in your area.
- Honour your inner Grinch while respecting others rights to be happy. You might find that by allowing those feelings instead of trying to stuff them down.. they might not be so overwelming.
- Dont leave your humour packed up til after Christmas.. it's ok to laugh.
Now just a note to the people with your rose coloured Santa glasses on.... and you know who you are... Take it easy on Grinches and remember that while you are exuding your Happy ho ho everywhere , there are some that are feeling it less... and that's OK.
well said! I have several friends going through some some very sad and difficult situations. I don't expect them to be "merry and bright".
ReplyDeleteThank you Pat. I have been there too. I remember wondering .. how the world was still turning, ppl still laughing, when my life seemed to have temporarily lost it's meaning.
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