by ’Tis the season! Happy Holidays! Merry Christmas! Happy Chanukah! Happy Kwanzaa! Whatever your beliefs and practices, this is the season for celebrations in many communities. Even if you don’t lean towards any religious themed notions, for many, just the spirit and energy of the season that is present everywhere due to capitalism and media, creates a frenzied buzz of fun gathering, sharing your time, and gifting kindness to others in the form of presents, experiences, or actions. It can be very fun chaos and often creates feelings of warmth, love, and togetherness. My personal favorite is the ambiance created by the twinkling lights! I love the lights. Not the lawn inflatables, not the snowman decor, not the nativities, but the LIGHTS!!!
Unfortunately, this time of year is NOT that happy celebration of togetherness for everyone. People who have lost loves ones may be grieving the first holiday season without that person. People who have come out, and were rejected buy their own families for who they love, may be suffering. Victims who are suddenly put into family gatherings that include their abusers may be terrified. Those suffering from mental illness may be overwhelmed and unable to feel the excitement and revelry of the season. Families that struggle to make ends meet may be disappointed because they cannot afford to create the celebration for their children that they envision.
As a writer and generally decent person, I really try hard to recognize the struggles of others. I strive in my own life to help the person who may be reaching out for assistance. I volunteer a lot, serving the military, veteran, and LGBTQ+ communities, I foster animals, and I mentor. I feel like this is my way of giving back and lifting up others who need a little boost. I do it because I can, I have the capacity, but also because it fulfills me to give in some way where I have something extra, that may benefit another. Why wouldn’t I share that, right?
For now, this season, I offer you resources that may be able to help you if you need somewhere to reach out. Some of these resources are relevant across several areas of need.
It’s ok to not be ok, but please don’t suffer in silence. There is help available! And please, folks, check up on your people, especially if you haven’t heard from them in a while. Let’s be there for each other!!
LGBTQ+ Resources:
Veteran Resources:
US Department of Veterans Affairs
Victim/Survivor Resources:
RAINN (Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network)
National Sexual Violence Resource Center
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Mental Health Resources:
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Grief Resources:
Substance Use Resources:
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Remember, you are VALUED and WORTHY!
All the love!!
Christine
Anything But Stepford 
Leave a comment