Stephen Ministry
Holidays Are Not Happy for Everyone
When people are hurting, special days may be difficult. Everyone else seems to be bustling with joyful errands, baking delicious foods, and decorating lovely homes. Christmas carols stream on each radio, and everywhere faces are smiling and happy.
But someone may be miserable and eager for all the foolishness to go away! Fond memories of holiday traditions battle with the stress of pain. What to do? First, rely on your Christian faith and our family at Saint Matthew. The following are some other ideas that have been suggested by Toni and Devin Griffith in a Samaritan Hospice brochure:
- Don’t set expectations too high. Do what is comfortable.
- Remember there is no one way to celebrate Christmas and the New Year.
- Plan ahead for the most difficult situations by talking about them.
- Do something to help someone else.
- Get enough rest and exercise.
- Recognize, accept, and express emotions.
- Be willing to receive love and support from friends and family.
- Be patient.
If you or someone you know is having difficulty and would benefit from the care and support of a Stephen Minister, speak with Pastor Wengert, Referrals Coordinator, or anyone in Stephen Ministry.