Merry Christmas!...

As we have talked about before, the holidays are frequently tough for those dealing with mental illness.  Life circumstances can make it worse. Remember that being in a rough place can make moods difficult for anybody struggling. And on a holiday in which the economy is still uncertain, politicians are making our shared future uncertain, and we recently experienced a shock when 27 families lost a beloved family member---20 of them as young as 6 or 7 years old—we are dealing with a lot that is readily converted to a feeling of hopelessness.  It takes considerable work to remain positive.  And as I have noted before, it takes community.  I invite you to reach out.  Be aware of someone you care for who has been isolating.  Be aware of someone who seems unable to be positive.  Just be aware.  Maybe surprise them with a visit.  Make sure they are covered for Christmas dinner.  Make sure you call them.  

Now is not the time for anger or to confront.  It is a time to simply be there.  To be loving.  If you have had a period of estrangement, just let go.  Don’t re-hash old issues.  Don’t confront them with their failings.  Or push them about getting treatment.  Don’t comment if they aren’t who you would like them to be.  Just be there.  You never know what kind of impact your call or visit might have.  It might be what gets them through the holiday.  It might be what keeps them alive.  It might prompt sharing that you haven’t heard from them in the past.  Who knows what is possible?  Sometimes I feel that life is kind of like watching the dominos tumble when you push them at one end.  And if you give it a positive push…you never know what will come out of it.  

Christmas really isn’t about what you can give materially.  Deep down we all know this although we don’t act that way.  It is the gift that you give that comes from the heart that is most important. While our children respond to what is under the tree, it is the fact that Mom and Dad are taking the time to make sure that Santa has cookies and milk that may have the most influence. It is the love we express that really has an impact.  Use your compassion. It is my personal opinion that love is what makes the world go round.  I think that the anger of the last election, the judgments expressed by some on the right, made our last election what it turned out to be.  A referendum on love and acceptance.   Love can be powerful.  It can move mountains.  Use that in reaching out to someone struggling.  Today.  And remember, I love you.  Feel free to reach out, dear reader.  I look forward to hearing from you.  Merry Christmas. Happy holidays.