A Small Kind Act
What Lies Within
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”
– Ralph Waldo Emerson
I’ve known people who struggle with significant holiday depression, and to be honest, I sometimes feel a bit down during the year-end holidays myself. It’s not easy, even in the best of times. There can be financial worries, a world in crisis, the stress of expectations and events, and, of course, the dynamics of both immediate and extended family.
I remember reading that worry, anxiety, and depression often stem from issues that we can’t control. While this doesn’t make those feelings any less valid, accepting this can help us loosen their grip a bit. We all have different holiday experiences, memories and emotions, and we can’t assume this is a joyful time for everyone. So, in that regard, a small kind act or a few kind words could be a bright spot for someone who may be having a tough time.
I also struggle with the holidays and have stopped celebrating them. I will eat if there is feast going on. I’ve also heard that worry is future tripping on events that never happen, so it works! LOL However, it keeps me from living in the present moment.
I believe that there is a relatively large percentage of people who feel some level of stress or depression during major holidays. I don’t often have the option to opt out of them, and I wouldn’t always do so, but I almost always come away feeling drained rather than recharged—the life of an introvert. I don’t know if anyone can always be in the present moment… or if they could, it would always be beneficial. In any regard, “Happy Thanksgiving!” Haha!