To say that 2020 has been a different and difficult year is an understatement. In the weeks approaching Christmas, I started to feel some excitement for what has always been my favorite time of the year. I was determined to sprinkle this season with moments of joy and memories of love, but I also realize that so many people around the world, some among my own friends, may not have the headspace or the heartspace to be festive and to make merry right now.
We need to make room for the different ways that this holiday season will come to pass. We need to make room for grief, quietness, and distance along with joy, celebration and connection.
To family and friends who are dealing with cancer, fibromyalgia, diabetes, stroke, COVID-19 or some other illness, I pray that you be blessed with strength to persevere on your difficult journey, health to be able to receive and give joy amidst your suffering, and love to share with those who are supporting you throughout your illness, treatment and recovery.
To family and friends who are grieving the recent loss of loved ones, I pray that, while you are missing them so painfully during this first Christmas without them, you also find happiness in cherishing your precious memories of them and gratitude for the years, months, weeks and days that you had with them to experience life and love.
To those who are apart from their loved ones, especially the overseas foreign workers (such as domestic helpers who cannot be with their children, spouses, parents, and siblings) who may be experiencing Christmas as just another work day or just another day off) or anyone based abroad who cannot come home to their families for the holidays because of travel restrictions brought about by the pandemic, may you not be overcome with loneliness. May you be blessed with ways to meaningfully connect with loved ones this Christmas through mailed gifts and greeting cards, through phone calls and chats infused with as much love and care as you can squeeze into those few moments of videos, photos, emojis and text messages.
To those who are dealing with mental health issues, especially those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD triggered by COVID-19, may you find quiet moments and safe spaces away from the hustle and bustle. May you be able to celebrate (or not celebrate) this time of year in ways that support your self-care and treatment and may those around you respect your needs and wishes.
To those who are having grave difficulties or experiencing much stress in their marriage (or divorce), parenting, homeschooling, work (or job search), or finances, to those who have lost jobs and income because of the pandemic, may you be blessed with wisdom and prudence, compassion and forgiveness, chances and changes that will lead you to peace and progress in your relationships and in your practical concerns.
To the happy, to the healthy, to the ones eagerly saying “Ho ho ho!” in their homes and in their hearts, may you continue to experience and share the love, peace and joy that comes with celebrating Christmas. If you’re in a place where it’s safe and allowed to have very small get-togethers, to do a bit of gift-shopping and gift-giving, may you also help others enjoy the spirit of abundance, gratitude and sharing especially at this time when so many in the world have lost so much because of 2020’s pandemic, volcanic eruptions, super typhoons, flooding and other calamities.
To you, in whatever state of mind, body and spirit you find yourself now, whether you’re feeling joy and excitement, sorrow and grief, comfort and calm, discomfort and anxiety, or a mishmash of these emotions, I wish for you a Christmas season in the shape, sound and color that answers your need, comforts your heart and brings you peace.
Last Updated on December 26, 2020 by lea