This year, because of COVID19, we see so many people struggling to cope with everyday life because of the effect of it has had on each of our lives. Doing voluntary work in the community, I get to hear so many stories of shattered dreams and lost hope, that affects me to my core.
I sometimes wish I have a magic wand to help people. The other day, whilst delivering lunches to our elderly in the community, I just happened to ask one of the ladies how she would be spending Christmas this year. she revealed to me that she was sad as the cafe that usually puts on christmas dinner and celebrations for them this year would not be able to do so because of the restrictions we have being in Tier 4. This was the highlight of the year to most of them. I felt so sad, I asked the lady for the name of the cafe. When I went home i contacted the owner, and he then informed me that they had set up a crowd funding page and will use the funds raised to do deliveries this year. I donated happily to the fund and excitedly, I booked some of the elderly residents to have their Christmas dinner delivered. When I told them of this, they were so excited and appreciated what I did. I really felt happy and good I was able to help.
Some Tips on coping
- Accept that Christmas is going to be different and plan to adapt.
- Don’t be sucked into the hype that everyone is having fun except you. Right now so many people are going through challenging times and are trying to be positive and to take one day at a time.
- If you are finding it hard to cope, reach out and let people know. Don’t suffer in silence, Their are lots of organisations and people who genuinely care. People can only help if they know you need help. If you are too embarrassed to speak to family or friends, reach out to organisations like the Samaritans who are trained to listen, help and signpost you whilst being non judgemental.
- Focus on the message of hope and joy the Christmas story gives us.
*Be grateful and thankful you are alive to see another Christmas despite the fact that things may not be going as planned. The more you are grateful, the more life will give you situations to be grateful for. Stay positive and keep hope alive.
- Plan to celebrate the day doing what makes you feel happy and good. You could dress up, put on your favourite music and dance like nobody’s watching.
- Recall some of the happy memories you’ve had and be grateful you have those memories
- Take the focus off yourself, volunteer to help others, or go though you list of contacts send messages to friends and surprise those you’ve not been in touch with, by a quick phone call. This e may be the last thing you feel like doing, but it is therapeutic, it will restore your perspective and brings a sense of well-being and gratitude.
“Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.” — Calvin Coolidge
Remember that Christmas may not be the way you want it to be, but look forward to something fresh and different. Who knows, you could start new traditions that last generations.
Confident Queen Genny 