Do You Have the Holiday Blues? (Part 2)
We know that our focus should be on the excitement of the Christ child, but honestly, when a loved one has died, or a marriage has ended, we feel like the words of the popular song, “Christmas just ain’t Christmas, without the one you love.” The holiday blues are real and must be addressed, if we are to be emotionally healthy Christians. There is no shame for being blue this time of year.
Loss of any type can be depressing. It will be a shame if we do not admit our feelings and do something about them. As I mentioned in Sunday service last week, I am sad this holiday season as I reflect on the absence of my mom and dad. I feel your pain.
Experts tell us that coping strategies are needed. Prayer is at the top of the list. The Bible is filled with verses to comfort us in times of desolation. Here are a few.
- Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
- Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
- Revelation 21:4 “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Other coping strategies include: giving a special prayer for your loved one before the holiday dinner, lighting a candle for your loved one, or tell a funny story about your loved ones to friends and family. In the face of death and divorce, you may decide to celebrate Christmas in new ways. Change can be a refreshing thing. Instead of cooking a big meal, maybe this year you have a meal at a restaurant.
Grief has a unique way of giving us the permission to really evaluate what parts of the holidays we enjoy and what parts we don’t. Remember, there is no right or wrong way to handle the holidays in grief. You have to decide what is right for you and do it. You have every right to change your mind, even a few times.
Your Pastor,
Dr. Sheron C. Patterson