It’s almost impossible to not get caught up in the spirit of the holiday season each year. The sound of Christmas music is wafting through the stores at the mall, on the radio and even in the halls of our places of business. You can smell the excitement in the air along with the scents of Christmas pines, cinnamon, hot chocolate and the sounds of crackling fire places. People all in a mad dash, spending, buying and uplifted by the romantic notions of gift giving and the excitement of all that encompasses the upcoming holidays.
This is a time to think of loved ones and to be recognized and loved back by our respective special people in our lives. Whether it is a romantic partner, a best friend, family members or acquaintances, there is barely a soul that doesn’t want to be part of the lovely and warm-hearted, spirited rush of this madness.
The effects of the holiday season are not always an uplifting experience for the many people that spend the holiday alone. I often hear those that are not in a relationship or disconnected from family, remarking with blanket statements that they hate the holidays. It is very true that this time of year is difficult at best; for those that wish for the experiential closeness of lovers, friends and family it is a wake up call of just how alone they actually are.
I often feel that the Holiday Experience may just be overrated in some aspects, both sentimentally and emotionally. Hearing from a patient recently that, “the whole idea of giving gifts that no one wants and receiving gifts that you don’t need is just a silly waste of time” , I stopped to think and respond to those thoughts.
Of course we all know that the holidays are not just about gift giving but represent sacred religious traditions. With that said, all other aspects of the season are both sentimental, individually traditional in many ways and full of unique expectations from each of us.
None of us can control the variant aspects of relationship. For some at this time of year, you may be entering a new relationship, celebrating years together, or ending a relationship. There are issues of divorce, breakups, loss and tragedy for many.
In order to move forward during this time of year with no regrets or sadness for the life you live, whether it be with another or alone, now is the time to make you dreams become real. Make yourself a better friend, become a better person in the new year ahead. This time of year is a time to celebrate your life and your future. It’s about change. The recognition of the world around us, the need for each and everyone of us to make a difference in the world.
Instead of bemoaning the holidays and focusing on “being alone”, how amazing it would be if we could each pay it forward and GIVE of ourselves. There is always someone out there with problems greater than yours. Someone that would benefit greatly from whatever you can give, whether it be your time or intention.
I believe in making life happen, not waiting for life to happen to you. Go out this holiday and donate your time to a good cause, appreciate and take stock of all of the aspects of your life that you are grateful for. I’m sure there are some. Hug your child, your friends, your family, or a stranger! Make new friends and join the human race again… I’m so very sure there are welcoming arms waiting for you.
In Love and Light…
Dr. Arlene Krieger
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