This is truly a joyous time of year….for most of us. For some, not so much.
Let’s be extra sensitive this season to those who might be struggling with the “joy” of the holidays, knowing they are still estranged from their families, or knowing their loved one lost to an addiction will not be with them – this year or any year – ever again.
Joy for you and joy for me may look very different, so let’s be cautious in our assumptions. Be joyful, you have the right to celebrate your joy, but be respectful of someone who might not be able to find even a single crumb of joy in this season.
Life can be tough. Joy is one of the blessings we receive, but so many struggle to find it. Joy is a feeling of great pleasure and happiness. Not everyone can be happy all the time, and many cannot be happy during this season. It’s a trigger for them, or their family drinks heavily in their celebrations while the individual is fighting to maintain their sobriety. There are so many examples of difficult situations during the holidays. So let’s take a breath and rejoice in our own lives, but respect those who cannot do the same.
Be kind. Be respectful. Be thoughtful. Be joyful. Share your cupcakes.
Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!