Dear Dorothy,
Do you have any advice on coping with what looks set to be a tough Christmas at the end of what has been a gruelling year?
Yours Sincerely,
T.A
Dear T.A,
2022 has been a wonderful year, one characterised by the good, bad and ugly. And so, before I give advice on how to cope with Christmas this year, I want to say to you, dear reader, that I see your pain. I say this, not to be dour or to make things seem even bleaker, but because we cannot move past this until we acknowledge, as you said, that this has been a gruelling year and the festive season will be tough for some of us. Acceptance is the first step in healing.
A sense of social connectedness and a sense of purpose are two crucial things we need this season. We have come to realise this year how much we rely on being connected to each other; studies show that close relationships are a better indicator of long-term happiness than money, intelligence, or success.
Maybe you could put together a hamper or drop over a plate of Christmas dinner to an elderly neighbour you know will be alone this year? If money is tight and you can’t afford to donate to your favourite charity, could you offer to volunteer in some capacity instead? Acts of kindness don’t just benefit the recipient — studies have shown they make us happier too. It’s also crucial that we retain a sense of purpose. I hope this helps. Wishing you the best this season and beyond.
Yours Truly,
Dorothy