I hope everyone is having a good time tonight.
But I want to give a Christmas message to everyone who’s having a miserable time.
If you went to Mass last night or this morning even though you’re still completely traumatized by the Church and felt no consolation whatever– you are amazing. Please know that Christ was thrilled to see you.
If you were too sick to do anything but stay in bed today, again– you are loved. I hope you have a better Christmas this year.
If you’re in the hospital for Christmas again and you don’t want anyone to know because you’re so ashamed to be depressed this time of year– I am proud of you. I hope they are kind, I hope they can help, and I hope you get out quickly.
If you’re reading this on your phone crying in the bathroom or on the porch at a wretched family get-together that’s gone from bad to worse–it’s not your fault. I hope you can get out of there early. Try faking a migraine; it always works for me.
If you are in the middle of an abusive situation and you can’t see your way out right now, so you have to plaster on a smile and pretend everything is all right for another holiday– I see you. I understand. You don’t deserve this, you are very strong and you will find a safe exit soon.
If this is your first Christmas since going no-contact with abusive family members and you had nothing to do, so you went out for Chinese and a movie by yourself- you are a hero. I hope the Chinese was delicious.
If you just can’t get into the spirit this year, because you’re anxious or sick or mourning a loss, or because the evils in the world seem too great– believe me, I understand. Please release yourself from any obligation to feel good when you don’t.
And if you feel guilty for not feeling festive, stop. Stop beating yourself up, I mean. Don’t feel guilty for the guilt on top of everything.
The same Christ you see lying in the crib today is on the Cross with you. You’re the reason He came– to be with you. Not to be celebrated with a party. To suffer with you, in this. That’s what Christmas is all about– not forcing a rictus on your face and pretending to be festive. Christmas is about Christ coming to be where you are– yes, ultimately so that you can be brought to where He is, but also so you won’t suffer alone right now. Both are important to Him. Both are the reason. Christ is eternal. He doesn’t have limits. He doesn’t do things by half. He came to Earth 100% in order to rescue each one of us, personally, from our sins, and also 100% so that He could suffer with us at every minute of each of our personal Calvaries on earth. You are the reason He came to earth. Your struggle right now, is the reason He came to earth. All of your struggles are the reason and each of your struggles is the reason. You are that important.
Try to find joy in any way you can, but if you can’t, that’s not your fault. You’re doing your best, and I’m proud of you.
Your suffering doesn’t mean the birth of Christ isn’t manifested in your life this year. Quite the opposite.
I do hope things get better, for you, though.
(image via Pixabay)
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