Behind the Holy Season Messages

We are all about to be inundated with messages about this holy season. Everything from the birth of Jesus to all the diversity of celebrations of light, to giving, giving, giving. I know because I receive them and I send some of them.

But, behind the seasonal, feel good, holy chaos is a reality that for some is unpleasant, hard, and very taxing. Not everyone loves the holidays. For some this might be the first holiday without a loved one. Often, holidays are a reminder of broken promises and broken relationships. For others, it is a time of sever loneliness and depression. It can be a reminder of financial limitations, or it can catapult others to spend way beyond their means, leaving them to play catch up throughout the year.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our only focus was time spent together, feeling loved and appreciated but alas, there are other realities for many.

If the holidays hit you hard, take heed, you are not alone, and don’t have to be alone. But, you do have to be honest, first with yourself, and then with those around you. You do need to let someone know. This is the most basic premise of self-care. In addition, here are a few simple tips to help you get through.

Holiday survival:

1.     Don’t spend money you don’t have.
This will just make the post-holidays even harder. Share love instead.

2.    Accept invitations or don’t. Choose mindfully. But, if you don’t, fill your time alone with something that feels good. A holiday movie, a craft, or call people to chat.

3.    Stay conscious while eating and drinking. Again, decisions now will affect you later. Don’t overeat only to regret it and remember alcohol is not a cure for anything. It is by far better to feel your feelings and learn from them then it is to go numb.

4.    If you’re giving gifts, remember to buy something for yourself, a little something.

5.    Invite over some friends, make it a potluck if money is tight, but surround yourself with love.

6.    Make a list of the people who mean something to you and send cards to at least those individuals or call them.

7.    Make sure to attend your local church or spiritual center, or identify one that you resonate with. Lean into them, that is why they exist.

8.    Be honest when someone asks how you are, it might be uncomfortable but at least its honest.

9.    Take time to journal. Journaling will help you process your emotions.

10.  If nothing else works, call for help, you deserve love and support.
Call a Practitioner. Their contact information is located at: www.cslnj.org/spiritual-leadership