Recently, I've received messages from several sources about one of the great paradoxes of this festive, busy holiday season. As many of us know, Christmastide is regarded as a joyous and "merry" time of the year but, for many, it is a time of significant pain, loneliness and despair. In fact, many of our elderly tend to "leave this life" in December. This month can be a time of great vulnerability, sadness and the crushing sense of "being alone." The many reasons for this are legion - past loss of spouse, family or friends, secrets unexpressed, the depressed emotion of "just something missing," exhaustion or disappointment due to "too much to do" or unrealized expectations, etc. Perhaps you've experienced one or more of these situations, or one equally unsettling, during this "season of light and life," over the years? Or, you may know someone who has.

  

Given this very real human, holiday irony, I would urge you to reach out to folks that you feel may be suffering or at risk of emotional distress. Perhaps a visit, a call, an email, a card, etc. would be appreciated? It is possible that something more proactive is needed to allay such severe loneliness or depression. By all means, use your best judgment to help your neighbor and/or talk to someone with whom you trust. By acknowledging an issue, we immediately remove some of the negative power it holds over us. In any event, TLC stands committed in assisting any of us who could use a ride, a visit, a chat, a card, a meal or a hug. Please let us know how and who we might help! Through it all, the joys and the sorrows, may the glories and wonders of the season be yours for a Happy and Healthy Christmas season!

  

Yours in Christ,