There's something about the holidays, suddenly our "oughts" kick in with extra power. Those situations that at other times of year seem sad, at the holidays become tragic. I'm finally understanding the melancholy of the holidays season, the kinds of stress people experience; not that I didn't have an inkling of it before, it's just that this year the meaning of it has really impacted.
One of my co-workers flew home for her brother's wedding this weekend. It was supposed to be a happy time, but her grandmother died the day before the wedding. On top of that is a sense of "but it's the holidays!" almost as though death should stay its hand just long enough to see us through winter.
Even for those who haven't lost someone during the holidays, there is always the experience of missing someone at the holidays. No matter the reason for the seperation, there is a sense that this is the time we "ought" to be together; if we're sad, it's a feeling we "ought" not to have.
A lot of friends and acquaintances have experienced significant losses this year. As I contemplate the tricky dance of the next few weeks: three obligatory holiday parties, (already!) my mother arriving in town, only one day off work, of loads of other things to do; I realize that the true struggle of the season is not merely juggling an enormous pile of obligations and responsibilities, but learning how to accommodate for that missing piece we once tossed so lightly.
So, just because I need to say it, to all of you, if I haven't said it before: my heart and thoughts are with you this season, whether you are experiencing newfound joy, or recent loss. I look forward to seeing you those who will make your way back to my part of the world, and miss those who can't. And I am am hoping for a New Year filled with hope and healing for us all.
- S
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
sdn and the rest of you. Cavalcade of Nativities, brought to you by "Going Jesus," a blog I enjoy.
