Anyone who has known me for awhile knows that Christmas has been a difficult time for me for the last 12 years. For those who don’t know, my ex-wife chose Christmas Day as the time to tell me she wanted a divorce. For too long, I couldn’t deal with what should be a joyous season. I avoided my favorite Christmas movies, family get togethers, friends, decorations, and anything else that reminded me of losing my family. I would drink myself into a blackout stupor on Christmas Eve and stay holed up completely alone throughout Christmas Day.

I’m writing this post for anyone out there who struggles with this time of year. You are not alone, even if it feels like you are. You are not defeated, even if it seems like everything is against you. Healing is possible. As long as you still draw breath, you can lift yourself up from the lowest depths of despair.

Healing begins with forgiveness. You absolutely must forgive the people who hurt you, not because they deserve it but because you do. Forgiveness removes the weight from yourself. It frees you from the poison of bitterness and allows you to move forward.

Today, I’m in a much better place with the holidays. I have watched all of my favorite movies over the last couple of years. I don’t become consumed by the sense of impending doom. I’m slowly beginning to enjoy the spirit of the holidays again. If I can heal from that wound, anyone can find the strength to heal from theirs.

If you need a helping hand through this time of year, comment on this post, and I promise I will respond. I might only be able to offer a few kind words, but I will make certain you know that you are not alone.