The holidays can be a nostalgic and fun time of year, but it can also bring up stress and sadness. That is why it is always important to take breaks and spend time with family around the holidays.
For many people, Christmas can bring about longing for a past loved one or a longing for the way Christmas used to be. Whether it is the absence of a loved one’s laugh, a change in usual holiday traditions, or a loss of the nostalgic spirit, it is important to remember that many others are going through similar things.
“Divorce during the holidays is stressful. It involves extra planning depending on what house I’m in. My parents are always asking me about the other and it gets annoying because it forces me to choose a side. It causes a lot of anxiety especially with feeling guilty even though I can’t control it,” an anonymous student said.
Although Christmas changes throughout the years, it is always important to enjoy the good parts; whether it is going to Christmas mass, baking cookies, being together with family, or watching Christmas movies next to the fireplace it is always important to remember the reason for the season.
“Christmas is my favorite time of the year because it brings all of my family together to celebrate. We usually all meet at my house after mass, open presents, and have dinner together,” junior John Schultz said.
Many joys can come from Christmas, but also many sorrows too. Missing a loved one can be increasingly difficult around the holidays but it can also be a great time to remember and celebrate those that have passed by telling stories about them with family and friends.
“Christmas has always been a hard time for me because I was always switching between homes, but it became harder when my father died, all I could think about is how much I missed him sitting by the fire cracking jokes. So my family started to remember him by each family member walking up and telling a joke or story by the fire,” an anonymous student said.
Even though Christmas can be a difficult time, it can also be a time of familiarity and comfort. Much of the familiarity comes from traditions and being surrounded by family and friends.
“I have always liked Christmas because every year my family and I watch Christmas movies and go to my aunt’s house to celebrate,” junior Chloe Kirkpatrick said.
Christmas is an amazing time to take a break from school, spend time with loved ones, honor the loved ones you have lost, and enjoy the season. Although this season can be a difficult time to deal with mentally, it can also allow time to rest and remember the reason for the season.
