If you or a friend struggles during the holiday season, please read and share this post!
Dear Friend,
Once again, the holidays are upon us. In the midst of the excitement, laughter, and cheer, I have not forgotten you. The most joyous and spectacular day for some people can be the most sour and sad day for others.
How can I forget you? No matter how much you want to be happy in December, no matter how wholeheartedly you try to celebrate the holidays, your memories and fears burst their way back into your heart and bruise it over and over again. Your memories and fears are like wild animals waiting to pounce back into your heart. You know when this is about to happen and brace as though preparing for nuclear war.
Friend, I relate well to how you feel. Years ago, when I was newly divorced, my own brother committed suicide and then my Grandma died. They have always been the two people I love most in the world. My own mother has always rejected me since I am the product of her extramarital affair. That Christmas was the hardest one of my life. I stayed home and cried for three days that year.
But I no longer sit around and cry my heart out on Christmas. A counselor suggested a way to get through the holidays that my Grandma and brother would approve of and love. When I start to feel down, I find someone—anyone—I might be able to help and serve them. In the past, I have volunteered at homeless shelters on the holidays, served meals for those who cannot buy food, delivered toys and food to others, and spent time visiting in nursing homes.
Yes, I know how hard it is to force yourself to stop feeling down long enough to get out of bed and serve others. But this holiday depression strategy really works. So if you are struggling with depression this holiday season and need motivation to try this idea, just picture yourself feeling happy on Christmas. This will put the happiness back into your holiday.
Also, you can talk with others who care about you. If you do not have anyone to talk to, please consider chatting with me. Maybe we have never spoken but I am on Facebook, Bobbie Jo Rae, and will chat with you through messenger. Or you can email me at bobbiejrae@gmail.com and we can find a way to communicate.
I wish you the best holiday you can possibly have.
With much love, BJ Rae.
Let the encouraging words in these bobbiejrae posts help you
soar like an eagle above life’s storms.
Love others and be loved back…
The best gifts improve someone’s future!
Don’t stand alone, especially during the holidays!
Do you happen to know what the most important gift is?
One comment on “Dear Friend”
Sandy
December 11, 2017 at 12:49 pmYour message today is right on target, as usual B J. My Dad dies on December 21, 2005 and my wife’s sister passed on December 23, 2010. There are so many things we would like to share with both of them but know that one day we will be together for eternity. And yes, there are many who we can share the love that God has put into our hearts with. Blessings!