Are the Holidays Tough on You? (1) By Dr. Michael Brooks
I remember when growing up as a kid that the Christmas season was pretty exciting. Most kids don’t have a care in the world. Their world consists of friends, playing games, what’s for dinner, and when do we get to open presents? You knew that you’d be seeing distant family members sometime during the Christmas break. Maybe you’d have an Uncle Arnie like I did that would be there, he was the black sheep of the family, but always was your favorite uncle. He loved you because you paid attention to him and you were his only reason he came by the house to spend time with the family. The TV was on and you watched movies like “Its A Wonderful Life.” “The Christmas Story.” The entire family would enjoy Christmas dinner around the table together laughing and joking around. That’s the pretty side of Christmas, the one that’s represented on a yule tide Christmas cards. It’s the Christmas image we all would like to have with snow falling and a cup of hot chocolate.
Down for the holidays
But for many people that’s not the Christmas they will enjoy this year. They have lost a loved one, they have gone through a divorce or separation. A once beautiful friendship was lost because of a bitter disagreement or someone moved away. A family member only has a short time to live and this family will be at the hospital or hospice sharing a last Christmas together.
For most of us adults, there is some sadness associated with this time of year. I think having family helps us deal with some of the faded memories we often have of lost loved ones. Maybe our parents who were really into Christmas, with their decorating, making cookies, hanging Christmas lights, and like my dad would belt out a Bing Crosby “Dreaming of a White Christmas,” and we’d all chime in and sing along. Sometimes their good things to think about and sometimes they can a haunting memory of Christmas past.
In any case, be on the lookout for someone that is spending Christmas alone. Invite them over for a meal and present them with a small gift or gift card. That could mean the world to someone spending Christmas alone. The difference that would make for the lonely and brokenhearted person you know could mean life or death of their spirit.
The joy of helping others goes a long way for you personally. Just knowing that you’re making a difference in someone’s life and their family is a feel good moment. Have you ever thought, how can I help someone during Christmas? Here are a few ideas for you to ponder:
· If you know of a family struggling, offer to buy their kids presents.
· If you know of a family in your community or church, get them a gift certificate for groceries in your local grocery store.
· Offer to run errands for someone that is ill that you know.
· Make cookies or treats for a family in need.
· If you know of a family that has children and you know that they have limited income, buy a movie gift card for the entire family.
· Take a family out to dinner.
These are just a few ideas that you can reach out to those in need in your sphere of influence. It will take some time on your part but well worth the effort in bringing joy in other people’s lives.
Are you struggling with the loss of a family member, spouse or friends and are having a difficult time moving forward? Is Christmas so painful that you dread this time of year and need help in getting past the holidays? Are you hurting over a divorce or are separated and need to talk to someone about the pain you’re experiencing? Do you need help in planning how to get through the holidays? If you answered yes to any of these questions give Dr. Mike a call he can help you get through the holidays.
Dr. Michael Brooks is the founder of Applicable Counseling and Life Coaching Services. His services are affordable, accessible, anonymous and available by appointment from the privacy of your own home. To avoid travel time and the comfort of home, many clients prefer to meet with Dr. Mike over the phone 303.456.0555 or via Skype at drmike45. If you’re interested skyping with Dr. Mike send him an e-mail and let him know who you are and your skype name. The convenience of this type of coaching is the most effective means of Life counseling and life coaching. We come to you when you need us most.