A very Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. The holiday season is upon us. Okay, I need to stop with the corny lines. But, it is the holidays again. So many of us look at this time with happiness and love. Unfortunately, there are too many of us that don’t.
I was talking to my family and some of my friends about their plans for this year’s holidays. With all of us trying to navigate through this pandemic, the typical and usual plans for the holidays are now up in the air. For many years now, I have traveled to see family in other states to spend the holidays with them. My husband, my son and even the dogs and I would pile in the car and head to either California or Idaho to celebrate Christmas with our family.
This year, we are staying home.
This will be the first year my 6 year old son will be spending Christmas at home, and it makes me nervous. I want to make sure his memories are always filled with happiness.
So, as I start planning my decorations and gifts, I start to think of my family I will not be able to see this year. There are too many people that don’t have someone to share the day with. There are too many people that, even with friends and family around, feel alone.
I remember one year that I just could not get into the holiday spirit. I was depressed almost each day. My husband tried hard to make me happy. Nothing was working. My mind turned to hate and disgust as I had to face the holiday everywhere I went and I could not get happy about it. That year he vowed to make sure each Christmas was special for me and my son. The next year, he took us to Idaho so we can have a white Christmas.
It is too hard to be happy and warm to others when you are faced with being locked at home everyday. Too hard when everyone you see, can only see your eyes. No one can shake hands. No one wants to hug anymore. Even now on Thanksgiving, cities are asking for families to limit the number of people in their home.
This pandemic is no laughing matter. Too many of us are sick, too many have lost their lives. Please all be careful during these holidays. Love hard and strong. Be safe and smart. Your family wants you to be around for a long time. Your friends want to hear your laughter for years to come. And if anyone ever needs a friend, please feel free to reach out to me. I welcome all.
With great warmth,
