For many other people and me, we are in the most beautiful time of the year. I love the Christmas season. I love decorating and watching Christmas movies. This time of year is an incredible season to be with family and friends. A time to shop. For many a time to attend work and personal gatherings. Most of all, a time to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior. The real reason behind the season. So, tis the season to be jolly and enjoy the beauty the season holds.

But, this is not the case for everyone. Some people dread this time of year. The season holds more pain and heartache than joy and peace. Some are lonely because of the loss of loved ones through circumstances- death of a loved one, separation through a divorce, a break-up, and even physical separation by distance. All may lead to loneliness. I know what it feels like to grieve the loss of a loved one during the holidays. My mother passed away a few years ago on Christmas Eve. Christmas was my mother’s favorite time of year. What kept me going was my faith in God and the comfort He gave. 

 I also know what it feels like to not be with someone special during the holiday season and to feel alone even when you are married. As soon as the radio/television stations begin to play Christmas music in November, I listen up until Christmas day. I remember hearing a song by Mariah Carey, “Miss You Most (At Christmas Time).” Wow! I cried through it. My heart was aching for what I didn’t have. So, what did I do to make the season more joyful? I didn’t dwell on my circumstances and spend my time lamenting. I rejoiced in what I did have. Most of all, I relished the time I had with my children, family members, and dear friends.

If this holiday season finds you alone and maybe even broken-hearted over past or present relationships or situations, don’t dwell there. Don’t have a self-pity party. Don’t choose to exclude yourself from others. If you are invited to holiday gatherings, attend. There are times I have attended social events alone. I will go anywhere alone if I want to go. Surround yourself with family and friends. If you have a church home, there are usually various activities taking place during the holidays. They can take the focus off of what you may be feeling.

Make someone else happy. Giving a gift/s to someone in need brings remarkable joy. The things we might take for granted is another person’s delight. There are many ways to feel not alone and celebrate a joyous season, but I will end with this. Count your blessings. Let the good outweigh the bad this holiday. If you have something to add, please comment. It may help someone to make it through this season a little easier. Spread the joy! This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalms 118:24. I’ll be back next week with a new post,  “Peace on Earth!”

Be encouraged, and God bless!

Sister Jackie