The holidays can be a wonderful time of year for many. It can be a time of excitement, joy, laughter, fun, traditions, and all of the above. While that's amazing, we also need to keep in consideration those whose situation may be just the complete opposite.
It can be so easy to get caught up in the business of the holidays; the running around, the last-minute errands, rushing to get where you're going, time-frames, etc. because let's face it, we have all probably felt that sense of stress or overwhelm that comes with the holidays to some capacity. However, we can sometimes get too caught up into that stress that we might unintentionally take it out on others whether it be accidentally cutting off someone in traffic, or just in general, not having consideration for those around us. We don't mean to do it. We're not doing it intentionally and we probably don't even realize that we do it half of the time but sometimes the stress takes over. While this may seem minor, it can really be major to some people.
I say it in all of my blog posts but must repeat for emphasis especially around the holidays: everybody has a story. We never know what's going on in someone's life. We never know what kind of battle one may be fighting. That person who accidentally cut you off in traffic may have just got the news that their parent is dying and is trying to get to the hospital. That person who hasn't returned your text or phone call may be grieving the loss of a loved one and needs some time and space alone. That person who was supposed to meet you for coffee but didn't show up could have just got some life-changing news. These are just examples but also very real scenarios to put things into perspective that it can be so easy to assume, judge, and/or maybe even get angry but it's also important to realize we may not know the whole story. We may not understand why someone is acting a certain way and it can be easy to jump to conclusions and assumptions. However, chances are, those people are hurting in some way and a phrase as simple as "Are you ok?" "I'm here for you" "Can I do anything?" can all mean the world to that person hurting. That's why the importance of kindness and compassion every day but especially during the holidays are so important. Often times, especially during the holidays, people won't let you know they are hurting and won't ask for help or for you to listen; they don't want to feel like a burden while you're enjoying your holiday so asking these simple questions can be just what they need. You can be that person to make such a difference even if it's just in one person's life.
If you're one who is struggling this holiday season, know that you are never alone and it's okay to be feeling what you're feeling. It's okay if you prefer to be alone. It's okay if you don't want to talk about it. It's okay if you need to talk about it. It's okay to do what you need to do for yourself right now. I know it's hard right now but you can and will get through this. If you need support, don't ever hesitate to reach out: text "hello" to 741741 to be connected to a live Crisis Counselor at Crisis Text Line or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. It's OKAY to reach out for help. It does not make you weak or a burden. We all need help and someone to listen sometimes.
Wishing you all a very happy holiday season.
~Compassionately Inspired
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