Find Peace and Harmony This Holiday

It’s hard to believe this is the last column I’ll be writing in 2020. I am looking forward to somewhat of a fresh start with the new year coming in.

No matter the circumstances, I truly enjoy Christmastime with my family. However, that may not be the case for some reading this, and I want to acknowledge and validate those feelings.

Holidays are tricky. Families are trickier. And families during the holidays can be the absolute trickiest to navigate. With an understanding of the current environment and how it has played a part in family dynamics, it’s completely acceptable — and in many cases encouraged — to duck out on holiday gatherings this year. For those in the chronic illness community, such decisions seek to bring peace to the soul rather than discomfort or risk.

We must discuss health issues regularly in our daily lives, and now that health is at the forefront of public discussion everywhere, it can be doubly exhausting. 

I believe it’s important to set healthy boundaries and put our personal health and safety above all else, while striving to trust our own decision making. 

I understand that I haven’t been part of the chronic illness community for long. But now that the rest of the world understands what it’s like to constantly worry about one’s health, it is an opportunity to empathize. The average person can now see how other people’s actions can affect someone’s health. They now have a sense of what it’s like to be stuck at home for long periods. 

We’re in an era in which the appreciation of things and people, such as our families, should be at an all-time high. While this isn’t always the case, we do deserve to enter the new year with peace in our souls and in our hearts.

If you’ve had a tumultuous year, it’s OK. The stakes have been high for so many of us in 2020. When it comes to enjoying the holidays, do whatever is best for your soul.

Just remember that however you choose to spend your holidays, be safe, be considerate, and enjoy the moment! And if you’re feeling lonely, please feel free to reach out to chat.

Take care of yourselves, and I will talk to you next year. Infinite love and light to you all!

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Friedreich’s Ataxia News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Friedreich’s Ataxia News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Friedreich’s ataxia.