BY CLAIR WHITTY
Christmas is not for everyone, I write about this every year. I know that some of you can’t understand what all the fuss is about or just don’t like the busyness of the shops, restaurants and even the roads at this time of year. Financial strain can cause enormous stress and anxiety. Christmas can cause a lot of social anxiety too as you have to meet up with friends, family members, or work colleagues. It can be challenging for those of you in addiction as you may be torn between going to social events or avoiding them to protect yourself. It is a sad time of year for those of you who have suffered bereavement.
I mention bereavement every year and this Christmas, sadly, myself and my family join you in your loss. Those of you that know us will know that we have lost both our parents in the last 12 months. Our dad in December 2023, and mam 31st May this year. My father-in-law Mike passed away this year too. It has been a tough year and we are not looking forward to Christmas I have to say. It will be a strange one. The loss of both our parents is huge for us, we feel like orphans, but you try to get on with it, you know what it is like.
I don’t want Christmas to go away, I don’t mean that, Christmas is an exciting time for so many people, especially children and young parents, and even the nanny’s and granda’s. There are so many beautiful memories made at this time of the year. There can be the family row too of course, the best ones are usually had around the family games! That is all part of Christmas.
I know that some you have your tree up since November or earlier because you love this time of year so much. And it is a special time. I just want to say that it’s not for everyone and to acknowledge those of you who are just not feeling it this year. You are not alone.
I hope that whatever way you feel about Christmas you manage to have a good time none the less. Happy Christmas everyone.
