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Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsJohn Pavlovitz: If You're Struggling This Christmas
John Pavlovitz
Dec 24, 2024

This message isnt for everyone.
This message is for you, the person whose heart is heavy today, the one for whom this season is not merry and bright, the one who doesn't feel at all like singing.
Its for you who face subtraction; who feel the combined attrition of the all losses you've accrued this year; the people who've passed away, the ones who left voluntarily, those you've had to push away to protect yourself.
Its for you who've seen the end of something you loved; the dream that dissolved despite how much you gave up to make it real; all the things that you wish to be true right now and should be true but are not.
Its for those who've watched their best attempts to save their marriages and relationships not be enough, who are finding themselves no longer half of the whole they once felt securely part of; those who have a different set of chairs around the tablefar too many of them empty.
This message is for you who are grieving; those sitting vigil in hospital rooms praying for good news; those who just got test results back and have heard the worst; those who are spending this day planning a memorial service instead of a holiday celebration.
/snip
Marthe48
(23,434 posts)As I read this laden message, I do feel grateful that the year wasn't worse.
But as always, I'll be glad when we get to January. Maybe January 2029.
Mike 03
(18,690 posts)Thanks for posting this. It will be appreciated by a lot of people.
cyclonefence
(5,166 posts)And it's going to get worse before it ends.
Danmel
(5,802 posts)cally
(21,876 posts)I am facing a holiday filled with joy but also tremendous grief for an estranged daughter and family who have died. This helped me today.
Hekate
(100,133 posts)Thank you, DD
DFW
(60,429 posts)We do not deserve what we have if we forget those who deserve better than they have.
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