I was catching up on Facebook the other day when I came upon a post from a friend of mine. It stopped me mid-Christmas cheer. She said we need to be aware of the fact that not everyone is joyful during the holidays. Not everyone has family or close friends with whom to celebrate the season. Some people are struggling just to make it to January 2nd. Wow.
This is my favorite time of year and always has been. I am usually bursting at the seams with merriment. But then I have a loving husband, two amazing sons with equally amazing wives, several grandchildren and many special friends and family. I can honestly say I have never been lonely or sad during the holidays. Count me blessed.
There are many people like me. What I forget is that there are also many who are not. This is not about bringing you down at Christmas time but I would be remiss if I didn’t remind you that some people are in pain this time of year. Some people may be hurting due to their personal circumstances. Maybe they just lost a loved one or received frightening health news or a breakup with their partner or spouse. Hmm.
Have empathy for these people. Reach out in ways that serve, in ways that help or even heal. We are all in this life together. Share yourself, share love.
Knowing that at least one person cares may be enough to change the season for someone. Most churches this time of year adopt one or more families (my old workplace did this every year) and purchase much needed gifts including toys and clothing. My new church will be providing for hundreds of families. It is a wonderful opportunity for those who are “wealthy” to give to those who are “poor”.
Being fortunate does not mean you get to dance around in your merriment by yourself. It puts you in the honorable position to pay it forward, to give back, to reach out to those of us who aren’t dancing for joy. That is our calling as human beings sharing the planet.
This year, be aware of those around you who aren’t feeling joyful. Smile at a stranger who seems lost. Give of your time, your talent or your treasure where it is most needed. Wealth is meaningless unless we spread it around.
God bless you and Merry Christmas! :))