Kindness

I have quite a few friends who are going through some “stuff”.
You probably do, too.

“Stuff” is always difficult but the heartache is magnified during Christmas. Among twinkling lights, nativity scenes, baked cookies and ornate gifts, struggles can seem like an uninvited, obnoxious guest. So how do we deal with friends and family who aren’t bouncing around this month, enjoying the anticipation and excitement of this season?

We love them. We don’t avoid them. Yes, I know we don’t mean to do that…but we do. It’s just easier to stay all Christmas-y if we maintain a nice distance from those who lost a loved one this year or if we remove ourselves, at least temporarily, from a chronically ill family member. I mean, what a buzz kill, right? Who wants to be brought DOWN when we’re so UP?

Let me share something with you that I’ve learned: From a newly widowed mom of 4~ don’t tell her “It was God’s will” or “You will meet a great man again someday”. She would rather you offer to bring a meal, come over for coffee or just call to see if she needs anything. From a couple who lost a child: There is little consolation in reminding them that there will be OTHER children. Children aren’t interchangeable, friends. From a friend who has lost an aged parent: No, they aren’t technically orphans if mom and dad have passed…but they feel like they are. They feel the loss as though they were 6 years old.

Being a good friend (or son, or daughter, or whatever) means that we have to step out of our comfort zone. So don’t forget those that are hurting this season. Be kind.

Be blessed!
Amy