Bittersweet Christmas

Bittersweet Christmas

Many of us do not need to be told that Christmas can be a tough time of the year. For those in deep depression, it is the very season of giving, of rejoicing that can be the hardest. Especially if they feel alone.

Many of us don't have to be told that Christmas is sometimes bittersweet. When we were children, it was perfect at least in our minds and expectations, and the younger we were the simpler it was. But when we get older people fall off. We grow apart and sometimes never speak. We have a web called "life" and all the sudden that tree though beautiful in every respect reminds us equally of what we have, and what we do not. The best word may be bittersweet, but Christmas means something a little different for every soul that aches for what we no longer have, and who is no longer with us.

Many do not have to be told that that one person who called weekly has passed on, and your phone no longer rings. It could be anybody. A grandfather for me, a sister for you, or parents that gave everything so you might have a happy Christmas. You save those voicemails and listen to that voice sometimes, and it is bittersweet. The voicemail one day disappears, and you catch yourself wondering a few years later what they sounded like.

Many don't have to say they give it all to the children. You remember those early days, and they deserve it too: all those presents because giving is important. Joy covers up any sadness especially on Christmas morning, and for precious moments all memory is redirected to the best you have - those with you, and even those missing that will receive a phone call.

Many do not have to say giving does feel good. Especially when what you're giving is the best you have. Not just presents, but a whole year of giving to the people about you, even if it's doing your best for people you don't like; or people who hate you. But giving without expecting a reward, giving without reciprocation, giving while no one is looking; these are the best of all when we look in the mirror.

And many don't have to say there's someone we ought to call - someone we would like to speak with even though the hurt has happened.

But there is no better day for hope. There is no better day for the present. There is no better day than Christmas for the best gift you can give. No. Christmas is not all about you. So, make that call. Make that visit. Even a Christmas truce was good enough on the western front. Now it is 2025, not 1914, and we have more reason than ever to give.

Merry Christmas especially to the wayward, you are not alone. Merry Christmas to the blessed, it is never too late to bless another.

-A.M. Grant