As we sail closer to all of the holidays of the season, I'd like to share a few words of encouragement for those who may be hurting instead of happy.
What a year (or two) it has been.
On top of the tyranny and oppression that has been sloshed all over us, there are those who may have experienced the loss of a loved one (human or pet) the loss of a job, of a home, of a dream...
And my heart goes out to you in your sorrow.
I am no stranger to loss and grief.
And those painful emotions can become even more intense during the holidays.
The intense pain, loss and/or loneliness can make you feel like you want to stay in bed with the covers pulled up.
"Just wake me after New Years!"
Many people reading this message are nodding their heads, because they know exactly what I'm talking about.
How in the world do you get through these times?
Tune in at 10:00 am pacific this week to hear about:
Mon 12/13: "Doing What's Right for You"
Tues 12/14: "Joy and Sorrow"
Weds 12/15: "Putting the Happy Back into the Holidays"
Thurs 12/16: "Christmas Recipe Exchange"**
** Email us your favorite holiday/Christmas recipe by Wednesday 12/15 (with a photo if possible) and we'll share those on my Thursday show -- and also in the Friday newsletter! Email: support@thehealthyamerican.org
The recipe exchange is a fun way to lighten our spirits during this time of the year.
Here are a few more ideas that could help you (or someone you know who may be hurting) get through the holidays and look forward to brighter days ahead.
~ Don't isolate yourself. Staying in bed under the covers may sound appealing, but generally being with other people can give you a lift and at the least be a distraction. Don't wait for the invitations to come; seek out opportunities to visit friends and family. But, be sure to give yourself an "out" if you're just not up to the entire visit.
~ Be flexible on traditions. You don't have to do things the same way as before. Start a new tradition or just scale back this year. Or don't do anything!
~ Honor the memory of your loved one. I like to light a candle, recite a favorite prayer or poem and acknowledge the life that impacted me. You could do something your loved one enjoyed, or make a donation in their name. Or, just reflect on a special favorite memory that brings healing to your heart.
My best tip of all?
Right when I don't feel like doing anything at all, I look for ways to be of service to others.
It's been my experience that nothing heals the hurting heart more than helping others less fortunate.
Isn't it amazing how we are designed to be in community with others? And how the adage, "It is better to give than to receive" really is true?
Because in the giving, we get so much in return.
That is what I'm going to focus on these next few weeks.
...and I'll let you know how it goes.
One more thing: do something nice for yourself as well.
Be kind and patient -- and yes, compassionate -- with YOU! It's so hard when "life-as-we-know-it" has been shattered.
That's when it's extra important to cut yourself some slack, focus on one breath at a time, and try to look ahead to what life has in store for you next.
My hope and prayer is that you'll be able to embrace the new life that God has in store for you.
Please keep me in your prayers to do the same.
Until then, I wish you and your loved ones much PEACE now
and always.
~ Peggy
P.S. I have also learned that joy and sorrow can exist in the same place, at the same time. I know that my loved ones would not want to see me suffering, and that alone encourages me to embrace the new life that lies ahead. Tune in tomorrow for THE HEALTHY AMERICAN MORNING show where I will share my insights and we encourage each other as well.
P.P.S. Don't forget to join us Mon-Thurs at 3:00 pm pacific for "PEGGY TO THE RESCUE" where we roll up our sleeves and tackle this tyranny together! Bring your issues and I'll be answering your questions LIVE all week!
