This time of year can get so busy that we can easily lose sight of those around us who are suffering. For some this is a happy season, but for others it’s a time of pain and sadness. Let’s remember to be kind, loving, and compassionate. There are many this year who are going into their first holiday season without a precious loved one. Many are spending their first Christmas without their spouse, child, best friend, grandparent, and other family members. They may feel intense sadness and loneliness.

Those who suffer from mental illness often seem to feel much worse during the holidays. I remember when I suffered from sever mental illness. One of my diagnosis was Clinical Depression. During the winter it was always much more difficult, and the holidays was ever harder. I wanted to feel joy, but I just never could break out of the darkness caused by the depression. It wasn’t that I did not love being around family for all of the festivities, it was just that I also always felt like I was drowning in a deep pit of despair. Thankfully I was set free on May 24th, 2020, but there are many who are not free yet. There are many who are suffering in silence and trying to feel the joy they so desperately want to feel.

There are also many who are struggling financially and the holidays can causes so much added stress. I think about single parents who are trying to make ends meet and then trying to figure out how to buy presents for their children. There are also many two income families who live paycheck to paycheck and do not even have enough for the necessities of life.

Each of us can do something to spread kindness to others. We can interact with love, smile, reach out, send a card, give a little finical help if we have the means, invite someone out for lunch or coffee, invite someone to church, open our homes for fellowship, bake cookies for others, give a hug, forgive when it would be easier to pick up offense, and spread the love of Jesus.

If the Lord lays someone on your heart reach out to them. If you see someone that is struggling do something kind for them and show them you care. Sometimes a quick message to let them know you are thinking of them can make all the difference!! A smile, a text, a card, anything to show them they are not alone can be healing to their heart. Let’s remember to look around, outside of ourselves, and see how we can make a difference in someone else’s life!!

Blessings,

Nichole Henson, Fullness of Joy Ministry