You are not alone.
Naturally, we all feel different about the holidays as we grow older. When we were young, our world was filled with magic at every turn. Glistening snow with a perfect texture for snowman-building, The North Pole filled with elves feverishly working to build our toys, playing in the basement with our cousins during family parties. Worry-free and filled with joy. Of course, not everyone experienced perfection as children, but the holidays were a time when we could all feel a little magic regardless of our circumstances.
As we grow older, the magic starts to fade. Our family traditions have either withered or morphed. Some of our loved ones are no longer with us. Physical distance becomes a burden. The focus on magic has turned into the focus on reality—bills, loss, schedules, and more. We all feel it in one way or another.
You see, we all have something that makes us feel a little lost at the holidays. Whether it’s big or small, the holidays can be emotional. I’m just here to say that you’re not alone. If you’re missing a loved one this holiday season or feeling lonely, I hope you find some solace in time with friends and other family members. If you’re financially struggling, I hope you surround yourself with those that truly find your presence gift enough. If you’re unable to be with your family, I hope you build your own little winter wonderland and find some of the magic on your own. If you’re missing the family traditions of your past, I hope you make some new ones with your children or friends.
Host a holiday party, go on a neighborhood adventure looking for the best light display, craft some gifts until you’re blue in the face, snuggle your pets while drinking hot cocoa and watching your favorite holiday movie, make a snow angel, build a snow man, or have an epic snowball fight.
Give back to charities (try this one, or this one, this one too), volunteer at a local soup kitchen, leave little cards of holiday cheer with people you know could use a lift.
We could all be more understanding, patient, and caring this time of year. So, please make sure you reach out to people you care about and let them know. You never know what someone may be feeling during the holidays and I promise you, they probably need it just as much as you do.
Sam Siman
Sam works in advertising/marketing by day and moonlights with startup consulting, dating profile overhauls, and event planning. She lives in Columbus with her two dogs and spends her free time writing, drinking coffee and local beers, getting zen with yoga, catching a good concert, and laughing with friends. She doesn't give a shit if you're offended by lewd language, so #dealwithit.