A Season of ThanksGiving

Black woman holding a pumpkin.

November often marks the season of Thanksgiving. Families gather. Recipes are shared. Menus are prepared for the big feast. And between watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade and Football, we usher in the holiday season. For some, this season is filled with stress and grief. Struggles with finances and the stress of trying to make ends meet, missing loved ones who are no longer at the dinner table, and navigating dysfunctional environments, relationships, and family dynamics can take a toll. I would love to say that Thanksgiving and the holiday season is as sweet as Grandma's sweet potato pie, but I understand and empathize with the realities many are facing. There is hope and things that we can do to lighten the load for ourselves and others.

The Beauty of Breaks and Boundaries

With all the hustle and bustle and never ending to-do lists, it's okay to take a break. Join the nap ministry and catch some z's. Watch that favorite television show. Listen to or pick up a book (A Conversation With The Little Girl is a good option by the way). If money allows, plan an impromptu getaway from it all - even if it's only for a day or two. Take a long bath. Head to the movies, or treat yourself to a nice dinner. Take the break that you need and don't feel sorry of shameful about it. It's not lazy, it's necessary. It will help to refresh and renew your spirit and energy. In order to do that you'll have to set some healthy boundaries. Say no even if you feel pressured to say yes. Block off time on your calendar if you need to. Communicate your availability in advance. Proactively set up the time and space needed to fill your cup. This could look like waking up or going to bed earlier.

Give What You Can

We've all heard the saying, "It's better to give than to receive." According to Psychology Today, this is actually a fact. Altruism, the selfless concern for others wellbeing, has been proven to produce positive endorphins, improves physical health, and makes you feel more grateful for what you have. But just like sugar intake and carbs (my God carbs!), give in moderation according to what is healthy for you and your situation. It will come back to you ten fold. Maybe not in finances, but maybe more peace, satisfaction, joy, or opportunities. Your giving can have a ripple effect.

Community 247 has multiple options and programs to give to including our workshops, rental support, and Basket Blessings Drive. We are also spreading holiday cheer by adopting a family from a local Baltimore agency.

Extend Grace

Give yourself and others grace. You never know what someone else is going through or has gone through. Empathy is important. Grace does not mean accepting abusive or destructive behavior, but being able to step back and see someone else's perspective, understanding that you come with your own stuff too. Grace coupled with humility and boundaries offers compassion as well as advocacy for your own mental health and well-being. I know that it has been God's grace and mercy that has kept me. It carries me and goes a long way. Tap into want keeps and sustains you.

Inhale peace and exhale stress this holiday season. Think of others along the way and how you can make a difference.