Deck the Halls with love and giving!
Deck the Halls with warmth, love, and giving for so many at this time of the year, when we are aware of the precious moments of “Giving Thanks.” December is also how we can share friends, old and new, from all corners of our lives. Try and give where you can because there are so many little ones this year with single moms, parents, and families that are struggling, so toys can be a challenge for many. I remember every year when Gary Craig of WTIC in CT did a huge toy drive for children and families in need. It was one of his wonderful signature moments. We need more of him this year.
In New York City, you can go to the post office where so many children have written letters to Santa Claus about what they want for Christmas. Anyone can read through the letters, buy the toys they’ve requested, and the families get to come and pick them up for the children. A great idea – I wonder if other places have that available at the post office? Seeing the joy on the little ones is, of course, priceless. And the parent is beyond thankful!
I have heard from so many folks that they intended to do all the things they wanted to do last year, but are now doing them this year. Traveling, visiting friends, loved ones, and opening our hearts and doors to those who desperately need it now, especially those who won’t have a loved one at the table.
The time from Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and of course Christmas is difficult for all who would be missing a loved one at the table. If that is a child, the December Holidays of Christmas or Hanukkah, the loss will be one of the deepest griefs. A silence in the house. My deepest thoughts of love go out to you.
Keep those hugs going throughout the year, and those can remain in your memory since memories no one can ever take from you.
My dear friend Sandy Goodman is one of those amazing people who lost two sons, and I ask her how she celebrates the holiday. I’ve shared her list before, but it can always be said again during the holidays.
Sandy Goodman, author of Love Never Dies: A Mother’s Journey from Loss to Love, has shared her heartfelt annual list of holiday to-dos—simple, meaningful ways to honor love, remembrance, and connection:
- Hug those you love—and those who need love. Let them know how grateful you are for their presence in your life.
- Make a list of the people you want to shop for or intentionally reach out to during this season of love.
- Send out cards that include candle-lighting announcements, so others know you’re thinking of them and inviting connection.
- Purchase candles to burn throughout the month as a reminder that love is eternal—and to celebrate the lives of those we cherish, even when we cannot see them.
- Prepare and mail cards to those who are grieving, as well as to those who support and love them.
- Decorate your home in ways that honor what your loved ones enjoyed and the traditions that brought them joy.
- Plan and carry out generous, unexpected acts of kindness—the kinds of gestures your loved ones would be proud of and delighted to see you doing.
- Create beauty and warmth by decorating with things that make people smile and filling your home with the scents of nature.
- Call or visit those you feel deeply connected to, nurturing the relationships that matter most.
- Remember in your heart that your loved ones hear you, feel you, and laugh with you in joy as you think of them this holiday season.
As always, I hope the holidays, whatever you believe to be true for you, are filled with love and continued memories.
I’ll be returning with Thomas John for our annual in-person event in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, on December 10th. Of course, check out my calendar for more upcoming events. I’m also looking forward to spending time in Jan/Feb in Southern California.
Warmth and love,
Suzane
