I have been talking lately about relationships. Talking with friends, co-workers. It is not all roses, and champagne out there.

Not every person ends up having their happily ever after. The holidays can exacerbate that. The stress of trying to put on that happy facade, spending money that you might not have. Mix in alcohol and drugs and you have a toxic cocktail.

Let us not forget about COVID-19 either. Many states are seeing a surge of cases. My small family here in Arizona have decided to forego a gathering as we have a couple of family members who have health concerns. A difficult choice to make in a country where family gatherings around holidays are the highlight of the year.

All that being said, this year especially, we all need to be kind to one another and ourselves. The turkey and all of the trimmings might be exchanged for shepherds pie, lasagna, whatever. It is ok. It has to be ok, because each one of us can only do what we can do.

2020 has been a bitch for everyone. People have gotten sick, people have passed, jobs have been lost. And the holiday pressure has started. All the bright, shiny commercials showing the best products to give as gifts. Actresses, and actors dressed up in glamorous, glittery clothing with their fake smiles. Madison Avenue has hit the airwaves like the Allies on Normandy Beach.

It doesn’t have to be that way. You can make the holidays however you want. Keep yourself, and your family safe, and sane. Be kind to yourself, and to those around you.

Just be kind.