Well, Christmas time is here again. It is traditionally a time for touching base with family and friends, exchanging small gifts, and spending time with loved ones. BUT, what happens if you have no family where you are? What happens if you don't feel you want to impose on anyone on Christmas day?
How do you cope with keeping your spirits up at this time?
Well, I'll tell you how I do it. I have no family and I have always felt that Christmas is a family time.
I decided a few years ago, to create a Christmas that was with my traditions. It was like wiping the slate clean and starting again. I do a celebration dinner on Christmas eve with friends, which means I"m not encroaching on their time, but I'm still managing to have a Christmas that I want. It's also lots of fun! If you don't cook all that well, neither do I , yet I managed with precooked chickens and other things!! It's not the food necessarily, but the company and what the holiday represents to you.
You have a choice. You can choose to withdraw and pity yourself, or you can choose to get out there, and include yourself in the festivities.
On Christmas day, I've grown to really enjoy the relaxing that goes with not having to go to anyone's home, or the expectations of having to cook extra to take along!! Celebrate what you do have!
Another great way to give back if you're alone, is to offer to help at a refuge for people less fortunate. How wonderful is it to offer your services on Christmas day. It embodies all that Christmas is.
There are so many things to celebrate in this life, it all comes down to whether you will choose to do this or not.
Well, I hope you make a good choice and enjoy life!
Take care till next time
Deb
