Holiday Cheer

The holiday season is well underway. Many of us have made plans for meals, gatherings, or parties to not only celebrate the holidays but to be with each other. The truth is that all these events are meant to show hospitality. We are invited to the festivities to have fun and to take comfort and joy in each other’s company. There is a sense of belonging that makes us feel warm and happy. In fact, there is a scripture that tells us, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” (Proverbs 17:22)  

Sometimes, holidays are a challenge for those who are facing illness, grief and loss. It’s hard to feel festive when you are sick, missing a family member or friend, or worried about having enough money for basic needs like rent and utilities. Despite those scenarios, it is still important to spend a little time with others to encourage each other and share the holiday spirit. A few weeks ago, I took a bus trip to Cape May, New Jersey. It was arranged by a travel agency that brings senior adults together for outings. I never dreamed that I would be doing this but since I have been a part of this demographic for a few years, I decided to visit this quaint little beach town with lots of Victorian style homes and a rich history on the Jersey shore. My husband accompanied me and we went off on this adventure together. 

We were treated to a trolly tour around the town at night when it was decorated with garlands and lots of holiday lights. Our local guide described the history of the town and led us singing Christmas carols. During the day, we had guided tours of local mansions and the history of the town as the first American resort town which began the custom of wealthy people coming to the shore to get away from the city and relax. We had beautifully prepared meals that reflected holiday cheer.  Many of our holiday traditions came from the Victorian era.    

As I engaged with other travelers, I found that some lived near me or worked where I work. Others lived further out but had family members who encouraged them to come on this trip. One lady was a widow for 16 years now. She travels with her friends every Christmas season and it helps her get through the time without her departed husband.  Another lady’s husband died 6 months ago. She didn’t feel like coming on this trip but her sister (who was also in the group) wouldn’t let her be alone over the holidays, so the newly widowed lady decided to come. She expressed that she was happy she came and we all expressed gladness at her presence. Then we shared memories of our departed ones and holiday traditions over our meal. That sharing and vulnerability helped us reach out to each other and provide comfort and cheer that only those who have known loss can share. 

According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, the origins of the word cheer “were not always cheerful.” At first glance, people think of the word meaning a chant or an exclamation. However, the meaning of encouragement or hospitality were the origins of this word. William Shakespeare once said, “Small cheer and great welcome make a merry feast.” It doesn’t take much to throw a great party. All you need is a reason to celebrate, an inviting space, enough things to eat and drink, a guest list and you are set. My prayer for you is that all of you feel welcomed and celebrated somewhere (your family, workplace, church or some other group). May you celebrate the season and each other in ways that suit you and make you feel happy and included.