Say No To Depression
There is a Facebook post going around reminding folks to be mindful of those who experience depression due to the lack of a large family, or the loss of a loved-one or a past memory gone bad. When I read it, I feel sad myself but I want to tell anyone reading the Chicks Down South posts that everyone of you have worth and importance. Whether you have a huge family or if indeed you are alone this season, you are of great importance. If you’ve had a loss this year or in years past, use that loss as a time of celebration not as one to pine for a situation you cannot bring back. If you’re by yourself, reach out to someone else and cook a meal together or join in with another group whose situation is similar to yours. Say no to depression.
This was a small Christmas for me, for example and I am from a fairly large family but this year Christmas would have been just myself and my youngest daughter if I hadn’t reached out to others in small situations. As a result, there were 5 at our table and we had a fine Christmas.
This year, I lost my Dad and my Mom spent Christmas with her youngest daughter outside of town. My oldest daughter, son-in-law and baby went to California and my sister and husband, who usually come during the holidays didn’t come because my Dad was not here. As a result of all of those changes this year, it was just Kristie and me. Kristie and I were invited to go with the family to California. I was invited by others with a pile of kids and grandkids but the time, this year was for me to be home and if that meant a small Christmas, so be it. But I was determined not going to get depressed. Instead, I decided to celebrate, invite others to my table and grow the memory.
Depression is a real thing. Anyone can get in a state of depression for a number of reasons but when we find ourselves leaning in that direction it is important for us to begin to count our blessings and then look for ways that we can reach out to others who may need us.
Our table of 5 grew into a great opportunity because every dish I usually cooked for Christmas was offered and at the end of the day, the meal was all gone!
I wish a reaching out for you during this special season. You have so much to give others so I hope you’ll do it. Someone needs your unique touch.
Josie
