When Christmas comes to mind, what thoughts and images fill your mind?
As children, Christmas was a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. We would attend church services, sing carols, and then return home to unwrap our presents eagerly.
The day would be filled with quality time spent with relatives, enjoying a delicious turkey meal and stuffing, and engaging in a lively game of charades.
The magic of Christmas faded away many years ago, but it completely disappeared seven years ago when I lost my Father. Since then, the holiday has lost all its joy.
My highlight of Christmas this year so far was attending church and joyfully singing along to classic Christmas carols. My mother and I also participated in the night event at the Botanical Gardens.
Christmas has become a season of excessive consumerism, pressuring people to overspend and go into debt for gifts, food, and alcohol.
Advertisements promoting extravagant spending start right after Halloween, causing financial strain and stress during what should be a joyful time.
Conversely, some perceive it as a significant moment for families to unite, relish in delectable feasts, exchange gifts, and possibly encounter a hint of holiday chaos.
Living independently as a single woman without children is a time for introspection.
In a multicultural society, not everyone celebrates Christmas as a religious holiday. While some may still partake in gift-giving and tree decorating, these customs may not carry any true meaning for all individuals.
This year, I enjoyed attending an uplifting carol service at my mother’s church and soaking in the festive Christmas spirit at Kew Gardens.
This holiday season, I am committed to confronting Christmas with open arms and relishing the chance to enjoy meaningful moments with my family at my aunt’s recently purchased residence.
In the past, I would usually celebrate Christmas alone in the cosy confines of my home, indulging in my preferred forms of entertainment.
Isn’t it ironic how Christmas quickly loses its magic as time progresses?
Not everyone is lucky to have a support system, leaving some to grapple with feelings of depression, grief, and illness on their own. While some are fortunate to have the presence of loved ones during the holiday season, others are left to navigate the season solo, missing the comfort and love that companionship brings.
Christmas alone never bothered me, but New Year’s Eve always tugged at my heartstrings.
My biggest wish for the new year was to reign it in with a significant other.
By suppressing my emotions over time to shield myself, I now realise that I am solely responsible for failing to achieve my dream.
As I actively address my negative thoughts and actions, I am confident I will eventually break free from their hold. I will have the courage to dismantle the walls I have constructed over time and embrace a new sense of freedom.
Celebrating our loved ones should not be limited to the holiday season. We must consistently stay connected and show appreciation throughout the year.
I value experiences and connections over material possessions, and I cherish the gift of someone’s presence more than any physical gift they could give me.
Given the choice, I would always choose pure and unwavering love rather than the allure of wealth and material possessions.
MY MESSAGE TO YOU
I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas filled with love and joy, surrounded by those who cherish you.
To all those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, my heart goes out to you. I hope you find solace and peace in this difficult time and that healing will come to you over time.
If you find yourself alone this Christmas, don’t hesitate to contact a local church or charity for companionship and support.
If you want to give back, consider volunteering at a soup kitchen where you can experience the joy of bringing happiness to others.
In everything, there must be a balance.
Natalie M Bleau
Scripture of Balance