I got sick on Monday, December 23 and stayed sick for too many days. I totally missed Christmas eve and Christmas day. My man went to the holiday festivities as it was his best chance to see his church and birth families.
My daughter and granddaughter video called in from Vancouver on the BIG day and I must have looked pathetic. They surprised me by having food delivered from a local restaurant. I had a delicious Thai curry coconut soup and some yummy Pad Thai. I was very touched. Much better than the leftovers I had planned for Christmas dinner.
I don’t remember missing Christmas before. I felt sad, but I remembered my mother who would have asked me to count my blessings. I started making a list of the things I was grateful for in my life. It really helped me to focus on what I have all year ‘round.
I thought of the people in my apartment building who were alone and feeling lonely. There are many who don’t have anyone to extend kind gestures. No surprise food deliveries or dinner invitations.
As much as these holidays are about family and friends, I would guess that my city has more people who feel lonely during these holidays than the joyous moments that are advertised.
I’m recovered now.
This was the first time in a long while that Hanukkah and Christmas celebrations started on December 25th. Our calendars don’t usually match. This is the fifth time since 1900. Tonight, we will visit friends to hear the prayers of Hanukkah and light a candle. A highlight of the season for me.
It’s hard to believe that these holidays started as religious celebrations. In the past, over the holidays, most people would have gathered in churches, synagogues, temples and mosques during the holidays. Year by year, religious communities like these have weakened. There’s a big difference between feeling lonely and wanting to spend some time alone. The activity might look the same, but it feels very different.
These holidays have also become dominated by commercialism. That can exclude even more people as many struggle to meet their monthly bills.
If you didn’t get the chance to include someone outside your circle in your holiday celebrations, there’s still time. If you have leftover treats, drop some off to someone who probably doesn’t. Invite a neighbor over for coffee or invite them to a coffee shop (if you will treat them).
It could be a nice start to your own new year. And, if you were feeling lonely over the holiday, invite someone out for a walk and talk. Everyone wants to get more exercise in January! That can make a huge difference; to get outside and share time with someone you want to get to know a little better.
Let’s support each other as we move into 2025!
Don't Be Shy
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