Yes, Christmas feels different this year. In the past, we may have needed encouragement to slow down and simply notice loved ones standing right in front of us.
But now, rather than being too busy to show we care, we have the added weight of not being able to gather as we normally do. There is the loss of shaking hands as a physical reminder that we are in this together, and the absence of long hugs to show our affection in ways that words are not sufficient to demonstrate.
These losses could be out of precaution for someone’s health, honoring another person’s discomfort in a face-to-face gathering, or following local mandates that discourage physical closeness. But regardless of the reason behind this Christmas’s different appearance, we are not powerless in the face of isolation. There are things we can still accomplish to make the most of this season.
Consider the following points in your plans this week
- Focus on what you can do! Admittedly, this season is nothing like it normally is, but we can give attention to making it the best it can be. Although different, all is not lost! A few ways to be realistic while not losing hope could be to:
- Make a “thankfulness jar” with those who are with you. Write down the names of special friends and family members, fun holiday memories, and moments that you treasure in your heart. Talk about the joy and laughter those named individuals and events bring to mind.
- Make a family holiday treat that has become an annual tradition and symbol of your family’s time together. Whether that means baking Grandma’s sugar cookie recipe or a savory, crunchy snack that your kids devour instantly, continuing these fun customs helps Christmastime seem more like normal.
- Make plans for next Christmas. As we all look forward to life becoming more manageable and enjoyable in the near future, talk about what you would love to do this time next year, and remember to dream big!
- Connect with those you can’t see. Remember, not everyone has access to visual tech equipment (or knows how to use it), so find ways to communicate with them in “old school” kinds of ways. Make a phone call, write an email, record a video, or send a voice message. Find a method to remind someone that they matter to you. If you haven’t heard from a person you love, call them rather than waiting and wondering if they will call you.
- Get moving and change your scenery. Go on a drive, go on a walk, or go on a hike. Just do something to change what you are looking at for a few minutes. Get moving and your heart will follow.
As we look with hope toward the future, don’t let the drudgery of the past several months dampen your Christmas spirit. Focus on the newness of the coming year and the blessings God has placed in your life today.