From our very earliest years of childhood onwards, we, in Western society, are continually told that Christmas is “the happiest time of the year”. Undoubtedly for many it is a time of joy, hope and love. Also true is the heartbreakingly obsequious fact that Christmas, and the all-encompassing festive season, is a time, for a large proportion of the population, of loneliness, emotional pain and even unrelenting despair. A conscientious psychiatrist friend of mine, who deals with people in her line of work from all walks of life, reliably informs me that Christmas is hard for fifty percent of people. A sobering statistic.
The reasons for a difficult time at Christmas can be varied, including the loss of a loved one (in the distant past or recently), family estrangement, family illness, financial hardship, homelessness, and for whatever reason, emotional and mental anguish.
People are frequently like Atlantic icebergs in their countenance I find. That is, we often only see an outward appearance that is only the tip of how they really are. Below the surface (the bulk of one’s persona) is sometimes what is really and disarmingly going on, and sometimes it is terribly sad.
I have noticed a swish of colourful street art near where I live, which ‘shouts out’ to all who pass by the searingly optimistic words “You are not alone” and “You are important”.
Please remember those two truthful sentences this Christmas if you are finding it hard to face the day.
Please reach out to family or friends to let them know you are struggling at this time of year, if that is the case. If you have no-one to turn to, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 to talk about absolutely anything that is bothering you, at any time of the day or night. Younger folk can call Kids’ Helpline (who’s motto is “Anytime. Any reason”) on 1800 55 1800.
My prayer for you this Christmas is that, no matter your circumstances, you can find at least a sliver of joy amongst the frenzied hustle and bustle that takes place at this time of year. Remember, there are people out there who care about you, even if they are strangers.
Merry Christmas, and may 2023 be all you hope and dream it will be.
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