My Christmas Message

So, welcome to the final day of #Blogmas 2022. Thank you to the readers who have read every article and thank you to the readers who have dipped in once or twice. It has been a very good challenge for me, as it has forced me to write consistently over the course of a month and it has allowed me to indulge my passion for Christmas. If you will allow me, though, I will add some personal reflections and my wishes to all of you.

This year, and indeed the preceding few, have been very tough for many people.

• If this means that you are struggling then I hope this day, week and year ahead bring you a measure of ease that you need.
• If this means that you have found it hard to get into the Christmas spirit, however you see that phrase, be gentle with yourself. This year, I too have found it very difficult at times to feel Christmassy, after an incredibly stressful year at work. Use this time to escape from daily challenges and rest up if you can.
• If this means ignoring Christmas, then do so. Social pressure should not be the reason you reluctantly take part.
• If you have become estranged from family and friends, don’t put pressure on yourself to rebuild bridges, as this is very pressure filled, but try to be open to any improvements in your relationship.

However you celebrate or don’t celebrate, my good wishes go with you today and in the future. Look forward with hope and look back at what has been good with gratitude.

And so, as Tiny Tim observed, ‘God Bless Us Everyone’.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens (1843)