Remembering and Longing during the Holidays

This holiday weekend I’d like to take a moment to acknowledge everyone who has a little longing in their hearts. It can be hard to get through the holidays when there is a piece of you (even a tiny corner of your heart) that is longing for someone, or to be somewhere else.

We smile as we go through the season, putting up a brave front hoping the hide our wishes behind a mask of happiness. No one wants to be the downer at a family gathering or the holiday party right? I think sometimes the holidays with all its cheer and laughter can amplify that longing we all hold rather than overpower it.

For me I have a continuous wanderlust and am always wishing to be on the road exploring different parts of the country or world. This year the desire to travel is amplified by missing my annual Thanksgiving week trek to some new destination.

I think it is important to remember during this time of longing the better things about the holiday. Me personally, I am allowing myself to acknowledge those feelings of longing. Allowing my heart to note what I’m missing (both in people I’ve lost and in travel not done) and registering that emotion. Burying those feelings won’t fix it and won’t make them go away. Allow them to happen and acknowledge them. If you need, have some time with a good friend to talk them out. Sometimes that talk, and a little cry over the sense of loss can make a difference.

Just as important as acknowledging those losses or missing pieces is also to remember to embrace the goodness of the season. Spending a holiday with a good friend or with family. Taking time to be grateful to have those people in your life. Try to remember the good parts of those losses as well. For me it will be remember with nostalgic humor of my dad running around in his Christmas red flannel on Christmas day. I will also remember the happy moments spent on the various trips I’ve been lucky enough to take.

Take in the little moments. That perfect minute tucked on the couch with a cup of cocoa, dog cuddled up next to you, and a good book or Christmas movie on television. Watching a child open a gift on Christmas, that excited amazement on their faces is always brilliant. Looking out the window to enjoy the magic of a white Christmas (if you’re lucky enough to get snow). A moment of shared laughter with others we feel close to. Whatever it is that brings a smile to your face, that moment is one to cherish.

I wish all of you get to experience some magic of the holidays whether it be Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, or Festivus (ha ha)! For me I plan to spend a merry Christmas with my friends and family and be grateful for them all.