The Gift Of You

Happy Holidays 2020!!! Celebrating Christmas during the pandemic is testing our mental and spiritual fortitude. The Stimulus package was vetoed by our current administration. Many families are struggling to make ends meet.Many charities are strapped for resources as they try to meet the need. People are breaking records as they travel to see loved ones. The government is recommending that we shelter in place due to the increased spread and mutation of the coronavirus. But what do the lonely due at Christmas? I've been very lucky to have friends to lean on. But if you feel alone, sullen and in despair? WebMD has a list of 19 things you can do to fight the slump:

1. Make realistic expectations for the holiday season.
2. Set realistic goals for yourself.
3. Pace yourself. Do not take on more responsibilities than you can handle.
4. Make a list and prioritize the important activities. This can help make holiday tasks more manageable.
5. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do.
6. Do not put all your energy into just one day (i.e., Thanksgiving Day, New Year's Eve). The holiday cheer can be spread from one holiday event to the next.
7. Live and enjoy the present.
8. Look to the future with optimism.
9. Don't set yourself up for disappointment and sadness by comparing today with the good old days of the past.
10. If you are lonely, try volunteering some time to help others.
11. Find holiday activities that are free, such as looking at holiday decorations, going window shopping without buying, and watching the winter weather, whether it's a snowflake or a raindrop.
12. Limit your drinking, since excessive drinking will only increase your feelings of depression.
13. Try something new. Celebrate the holidays in a new way.
14. Spend time with supportive and caring people.
15. Reach out and make new friends.
16. Make time to contact a long-lost friend or relative and spread some holiday cheer.
17. Make time for yourself!
18. Let others share the responsibilities of holiday tasks.
19. Keep track of your holiday spending. Overspending can lead to depression when the bills arrive after the holidays are over. Extra bills with little budget to pay them can lead to further stress and depression.

My solution is very simple...reach out. Someone in your life is more that able to comfort and protect you.  You are the gift that someone is praying for. Don't run. Don't hide. Put the energy out there and watch it return to you. If you can't think of anyone,  then join a social club to meet someone. Recognize that the holidays aren't about material things but physical prescence. We need you. We need your energy. Your uniqueness.  Your brilliance. Take your time and reflect on these things suggested. Above all else, know that you are loved, supported, and encouraged to push through. How are you coping this holiday season? Would you like to add to the tips listed? Share your comments below.  Take Care and Merry Christmas!!! God Bless You!!!