It is officially that time of year again. The holidays are here. It’s my absolute favorite time of the year. It always has been. My grandparents made the holiday season a magical one, especially Christmas. The beauty of the decorations and the tremendous family turnout was something I looked forward to with anticipation each year.
Life changes, but I’m still blessed
Fast forward to today, and families don’t seem to congregate as much anymore. When I was growing up, cousins were best friends. Now they sometimes do not even know each other. If you have a big family that still gathers together, consider yourself blessed.
Once we lost our grandparents on both sides of the family, ours somehow managed to split apart. Now the best friends/cousins I grew up with and I almost never see each other, and our children do not know one another. The family is spread out, and everyone is so busy these days. It’s sad really. Those big holiday gatherings were some of the best days of my life.
Today living with indolent systemic mastocytosis (SM) has changed the way I celebrate the season, as well. Just a few years ago when my kids were still home, I was able to prepare huge meals for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. My entire family would come to the house and we would celebrate. Now all my kids are either living away in another state or busy with their families. I am also not able to cook for two days any longer and put in all those hours on my feet.
Life changes. And that is okay. I am blessed beyond measure with beautiful children and grandchildren. I may not be there to celebrate in person with them every year, but I do know they are healthy, happy and loved. Family is so important.
Remembering those whose spirits need lifting
But there are people that we need to remember every holiday season, like the elderly with no family. Back when I made huge meals, I would always prepare plates and take them to people who had no Thanksgiving or Christmas plans to spend time with anyone.
I would also take into consideration the fact that the local fire department and ambulance service were out there on duty serving their community, and not home with their families. I would always take food to both places, as well.
I hope others remember the family members that cannot attend any of the celebratory festivities because they are unable to make it due to living with a rare or chronic illness. ISM can cause so many issues for patients. For instance, it is hard to make plans because you do not know how you will feel that day. And if you do feel well enough to attend, it only takes a smell, an emotion or certain food to trigger a flareup that will send you home or to the hospital.
Do not be upset with them if they are not able to attend or must leave. Let them know that they are loved and will be missed. If able, send them a plate of food so they don’t miss out.
In this day and age there is also FaceTime, where they can join in and see everyone. Maybe watch their grandchildren open presents Christmas morning. A twinkle in a youngster’s eye and smile on their face makes everything brighter and merry. Even if they are not there in person, this will lift their spirits immensely.
Spread the joy
Thanksgiving is more than just the food we eat. And Christmas is more than the presents we give and receive. It’s about spreading joy, peace and love throughout our families and our communities. Remember that there are lonely people this holiday season and there are ways you can help if you are able.
Let’s all do our best to lift someone’s spirit this season. The smallest gesture can make a huge difference in someone’s life. I hope and pray that everyone has a blessed Thanksgiving and Christmas season. And I pray you can find someone that needs you to bring that hope into their lives as well.
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