Songs tell us that this is the most wonderful time of the year. However, the holidays are often a time of great joys, sorrows and anxiety. There are so many expectations of love and joy in this season.  The expectations are often marred by strained relationships, losses or loneliness that are magnified as media, culture and religions organizations emphasize the messages of loving families gathered together around the fireplace and  tree. Add to this the stress of the focus on buying, and then buying more presents. It is cause for some to say, “Bah Humbug!”

However, we can use the holidays for our personal healing and growth. There are benefits for all of us, even if we are feeling like Scrooge.  Just like that grumpy old guy this is a chance to openly look at our feelings. When feelings are “in our face”, overwhelming and all consuming is a time of great opportunity. Instead we often attempt to pretend we don’t feel, find comfort in eating, get more ill tempered and blame the stresses of Christmas, or sleep in hibernation to avoid them.  Then at some moment when we least want to deal with them, they pop out and we find ourselves in tears, a fit of anger, or really down in the dumps – just when we are supposed to be jolly and happy.

So I.M. Heart asks you to look and listen to what you are feeling.  Start with, “I feel __________” and fill in the blank. Many times we don’t even know what we honestly feel. Please just be honest with yourself – for your own benefit. Feelings are often not logical or reasonable – but they are real. Instead of judging yourself for having them, give a dose of kindness, compassion and patience to you.  Feelings simply let you know more about yourself.  Be quiet and listen to what they tell you. They are a part of you wanting your attention. They give you a better understanding of yourself.  With that understanding, you can better cope with the stresses of the holidays.

Why, you ask should I do this?   All these seasonal feelings will go away after January the 1st, and the world gets back to normal business. Maybe– and then maybe not.  They are like ghosts in the night, they will come crawling back again – and again – until you acknowledge and heal them.  They will sit on you shoulders and weight you down, take your joy, spontaneity, peace and freedom. Like never before, now is the time to heal and take charge of your own life. Love youself, by letting the spirit of love in Christmas help you.  Give yourself a gift of healing for Christmas!