Divorce Recovery and the Holidays

Okay, December is here. Thanksgiving is over. The stores have been sneaking Christmas and Hanukkah and Kwanza and other holiday stuff onto the shelves since Halloween. The day after Thanksgiving a store clerk died and others injured in a rush to get holiday bargains. But now things are out there full force everywhere. Today, on this first day of the month, take just a minute to think about what your goal is this holiday season. I know the first Christmas after my divorce (in October) I felt almost desperate to “make” the holidays good for everyone. I was so afraid my kids would be disappointed. I was so worried that the holidays would be sad instead of joyful. I cried every day. (Most of the time privately.) Every holiday tradition seemed to bring as much pain as pleasure. I know how you’re feeling. My advice is to read this blog and then take five minutes to think about what you need this holiday season. Then think about what your children need. Next think about your extended family and friends. Write it down. What lessons can God help you pass along this Christmas? This may be the most inspiring holiday your family has ever celebrated. What positive lessons can everyone learn from this struggle? What will your family remember about this Christmas? Start by emphasizing the fact that what we are celebrating transcends out personal problems. That’s why the holidays endure. Every December holiday points to something we can hold on to in good times and bad. Even though details will change, reinforce the fact that what you are celebrating is worth celebrating always … especially now.