Seasonal Cheer

Seasonal Cheer

By Ross Turner

Gather ‘Round The Fire

It seems to happen every year; the crisp air rolls in, the coats come out, the trees put on their show, and lo, the holidays are upon us. The holiday season is a time of celebration, togetherness, and generosity.  Starting with Thanksgiving, peaking with the December biggies of Hanukkah and Christmas, and capping off with the ever-rowdy New Year’s we give thanks, reunite with family and friends, and spread as much seasonal cheer as possible.

Fruits of our Labor

As it has for thousands of years, the cold of fall and winter tended to draw people indoors and into close proximity with one another. Huddled inside and harvest gathered, there was little to do but tell stories, play games, cook and eat together, and generally enjoy the fruits of the year’s labor. The Danish have a word for this: hygge, or “a mood of coziness and comfortable conviviality with feelings of wellness and contentment.” Though many of us don’t farm for a living anymore, we carry on this tradition symbolically in our yearly coming-together for the winter. Yet for those without a warm den to retreat to, or people to fill it, these times can feel anything but cheerful.

Giving More Than Gifts

The same things that make the season wonderful can also make it hard. This isn’t news, of course. We are often implored to volunteer, give to charity, and generally be kind. And those are all good things that we should keep doing. But for those who are really struggling during these times, for whatever reason, my heartfelt message to you is this: you are not alone. I know from experience that can almost sound insulting to someone who very much feels alone. But I can assure you that you aren’t, that there are people who would love nothing more than to welcome you into their homes, to their tables, and into their hearts – if only they had the chance. I know because I’m one of them, and there are many like me.

You Are Not Forgotten

Though I can’t know your circumstances or those of countless others, I know that you’re out there. I want you to know you are not forgotten. In return, don’t forget that there are, always, people who want to break bread with you, hear your story, and offer you warmth and protection from the cold outdoors. Let this hope, this truth, sustain you until you find your people: they are looking for you and want nothing more than to find you.

Keep it Going

The funny thing about the holidays is that they sneak off as quickly as they come in. And it seems that no sooner does the season end than we forget its lessons. But how wonderful would it be, how much more could we carry out, if we maintained that charitable disposition year-round? People love the holidays because they celebrate the most important things in life. Why should values of such importance be mostly relegated to the end of the year?

Start a Conversation

The winter season will surely always be a time of heightened togetherness, but practicing this more intently throughout the year can only improve our sense of community and well-being. It costs little to simply be there for someone who needs it, yet the payoff can be profound for all involved. Call an old friend, make yourself available on social media, start a conversation with someone who looks like they could use a shoulder to lean on. All of these small acts can and do add up. This is the real essence of the holidays. So this year, give the gift of yourself, and keep on giving it. You can even put a bow on your head, and a smile on your face.