Issue #21
Holiday Survival
I've been spending a lot of time alone lately
doing deep inner work, and when I'm around most
people I feel insecure and vulnerable. Only those
with whom I can be completely real and honest feel
safe to be with. Now, the holidays are upon us, and
I'm called upon to be festive and social. That can
be very
difficult for those of us who are feeling tender and
private. Here's the strategy I recommend for getting
through the holidays. First, minimize your time
among anyone with whom you feel the need to "put on
a happy face." That includes family. Second, have
someone you can call any time of the day or night to
confess how you're really feeling and to get
supported. Third, take frequent breaks from the
social situation, even if they're just short walks
around the block or trips to the bathroom. Fourth,
keep checking in with yourself and make sure you're
both aware of what you're really feeling and
compassionate towards yourself in all your emotional
dis-ease. Remind yourself that this too shall pass.
And finally, look for someone else at each event who
may also be suffering as well. They may need your
compassion to get
through, and giving it will help take you out of
your own turmoil. Remember that beneath all your
fear, sadness, and dis-ease is a pure, innocent,
loving soul worthy and capable of giving and
receiving love. Happy Holidays, my friends.
"Never apologize for showing feeling. When you do
so, you apologize for the truth."
-Benjamin Disraeli |
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