For me, the spirit of the season means joy, peace, and the chance to reflect while spending meaningful time with family and dear friends. But, it’s not the case for everyone.

In reality, it’s quite the opposite: a very lonely and sad time. As human beings we share the desire for belonging, to be cared for, accepted, and loved. We want to be treated and to feel like we matter, especially during the holiday season.  

This focus is not always on our radar. We get busy during the bustle of the season, with sights set on moving through checklists and parties and visits. But, the holidays present a reminder to stop and consider what we’re doing in the spirit of giving, and to care outside of our immediate world.  It’s so easy to focus on what we want for ourselves and our families, however, maintaining compassion and selflessness this time of year is so important.  

Whether donating an unwrapped toy, preparing a food hamper for a family in need, volunteering at a shelter, or including someone at dinner that you know is struggling – small actions of kindness can make a world of difference. These of course are just some of many we can take in helping others through this often stressful and isolating time of year. Monetary donations are great, but sometimes it’s just human caring that is needed – a moment of raw connection to show another that they matter, and that they are loved.

As modern, middle-aged women we have the capacity to give – and we have the capacity to set an example too. Step aside from your schedule for a moment, and give your time and thought to those who need it most. Why? Because we can fill the heart of another while simultaneously filling our own. Because we all remember a point in life when we were at our lowest, and another reached out to help us (and we’ll never forget it). And…because we can.

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and best wishes for an enjoyable, restful, and beautiful holiday season that is authentically you. xo

We will not publish a blog December 19 – instead we’ll unveil “The DBD 12 days of Christmas” on Instagram. I hope you will follow along! Join us on insta at @dbydenise.

Our blog post will return the first week of January when we will share your favourites from 2018 and kick off a new year of thoughts, stories and celebrating this amazing time of life!

D by denise Journal is published biweekly. To subscribe and receive directly to your inbox click here.