Monday, December 5, 2016

Saying Goodbye to Christmas Blues


Since my husband passed away nine years ago, it's been hard to get excited about Christmas. Oh, I've gone through the motions for the sake of those I love, but couldn't muster a whole lot of enthusiasm on a heart level.

A funny thing happened this year. I was in Walmart when the first Christmas decorations appeared, and something inside me woke up. I thought about how bare the outside of my house looked while twinkling lights and wreaths adorned my neighbors' homes. A red bell caught my eye. There wasn't anything special about it, but I picked it up and put it into my cart.

It was way too soon to put it on my front door, but I could hardly wait. As weeks passed, my anticipation heightened. Finally, after Thanksgiving, I decorated. It might not seem like much, but it was a big deal for me.

Christmas joy is back.


Writers and Readers: Was there a time when everyone around you was celebrating but you were doing the "bah humbug" thing? How did you get past the Christmas Blues?

Photo Credit:  Radim Pechan

4 comments:

Karen Lange said...

Thanks for sharing your story, Susan. So if I happen to get around to your neighborhood, I'll be sure and look for the red bell! Love and blessings to you! :)

quietspirit said...

When my dad was diagnosed with colon cancer just after Thanksgiving 1996. I had spent the summer,from May until the end of August, transporting my stepmother to radiation treatments for breast cancer. It was her second round of breast cancer. I really didn't care if Christmas came or not. The prayers of God's people brought me through that time. I did learn to concentrate on what was important about the season.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Susan - that is good news for you and the family and your friends ... glad you feel you can cope once again ... all the best - as there are some wonderful celebratory events - carols and services ... cheers Hilary

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Karen - My neighbor also extended his icicle lights across my porch roof. Love it!

Hi Quiet Spirit - Yes, that first year after a loss is hard. The first Christmas after my husband's passing, I was recovering from a broken elbow and facing major surgery.

Hi Hilary - We've had some wonderful times this Christmas season. Our church sponsored quite a few families and gave gifts to their children. We also went to a delightful Christmas Open House at a local ministry. It's been good. :)