Christmas Season
Christmas day is fast approaching. Some of us are still scrambling to complete our gift shopping, and others have all the gifts wrapped and smartly placed under the tree.
Christmas is one of my favorite holidays. The loving spirit that comes with Christmas is unmatched to other holidays. But, for some, it is also a very depressing, or sad, time.
Why is that? Is it because it brings back memories that are rather forgotten? Is it because they have no one to share the joy and spirit of Christmas? Is it because they choose to look at Christmas as a time when they have to spend money?
Some of us have had experiences that we would rather not resurrect. Some have experienced abusive family members. Some have experienced the loneliness and pain from a death of someone very close to us. Some have known the loneliness of being separated from the ones we love due to war, divorce, abandonment, or various other ways that we alone had no control over. These experiences are painful and when they happen near a holiday like Christmas, they can overshadow the pleasures of future Christmas times, if we allow that to happen.
The pain, the sadness, the loneliness, are real. But, they can be lessened with peace, love, and kindness! This Christmas, try reaching out to others in a kind and generous way. Bake some cookies or bread and take them to your neighbor that seldom has any visitors. Volunteer at a local hospital, nursing home, church, or other civic community offering. Visit a local church, or community group, that collects names of those in need. Choose just one family, one child, or a whole slew of them, if you are so inclined! When you are in the grocery, or other retail establishment, smile at other shoppers. Smile at the checkout person, thank them, and wish them well – doesn’t cost a thing! Go to your local dollar store, or other discount outlet. Purchase some coloring books, crayons, colored pencils, or puzzles; donate these items to a local day care provider or Sunday school group. Donate some kitty litter, paper goods, dog or cat food to your local animal shelter. Give the gift of the season – share yourself, your love, your compassion, and your empathy!
Merry Christmas! 
