Many people have told me how stressed they become as the holidays approach. Some have mentioned that the holidays trigger grief over loved ones no longer here, financial stress especially about gift-giving, even seeing family members they would rather not see.

I know people from various religious backgrounds and traditions. I’ve noticed that some people with certain backgrounds stress more over the holidays.

I must admit, I don’t have any answers – just ideas, particularly since I do not experience holiday stress. Then why am I writing this blog?!?!

Well, I have noticed a few common threads in what people have shared and I wonder if there is a way to reframe?

I have lost many loved ones so I do speak from experience. If you are still grieving over a loved one, perhaps it’s time to join a grief group or grief counseling. Until then, perhaps focus on the love that is still there in your heart. It is not gone!

About finances…perhaps you can have a conversation with friends and family that money is limited and you will do what you can. Or make something yourself.

If there are family members you’d rather not see, maybe you can tell them you would like to reconcile. If that doesn’t work then perhaps you can limit your time with them.

As I said, I don’t have the answers. Just observation and experience reframing the meaning I make of things.

Wishing you a peaceful holiday season!