When the holidays roll around, there are a few thoughts to keep in mind. These do not solve all of the difficulties with the season; however, they may help us make the most of these challenging times. Perhaps with a little creativity, these ideas can help us through this most difficult time of the year.
I am no different from anyone else in my situation. I dread the “season to be jolly.” I realize this holiday season will not be the same as those before. I will find someone with whom I can share how I feel during this time of year. I will discuss with them honestly how I feel, so the emotions of the season will not become bottled up and catch me totally off guard.
I will remember that the longer I put off doing something, the harder doing it becomes. What I do not do now may become harder to do with time. I will therefore try to keep this in mind as I work my way through this new experience, I will also try t keep in mind how my actions might affect those around me. I know that no matter how hard I may try, there will be many times when I will not feel like having a good time. I am going this O.K. with myself now, so I will not have to worry or apologize about this later.
There may come a time when I wish to go somewhere or do something. I will go and I will do. I will give myself permission to smile or laugh if I want to. I will also give myself permission to tell those with me when I have a need to leave. This will take the pressure off me and those with me. I have enough sense to know there are things I do not want to do; and yet, there are a number of things I do not want to miss. I will therefore feel free to alter the way I do the holidays this year if I choose. I will make an effort to keep what I need to in order to experience the moments I do not want to miss. This is Sunrise.
