Chappy’s On Eagle’s Wings - The Holiday Season Can Create Stress

By Ron Ringo

This time of year does much to create a feeling of joy and peace on earth. However, those of us who have been around a few years know that it often can lead to a more stressful time.

This holiday season can be quite a stressful time with so much to prepare. The parties to go to, the presents to obtain, the relationships to mend and family to visit. It can actually feel much like we are fighting a battle, especially when we are in many of the stores or shopping malls, as we have seen in some recent headlines.

The widely secular commercialization of the holidays may at times obscure the real meaning of this Christmas Season. For an example of how to overcome this season with stress under fire, consider the following story:

“During a World War I battle on Christmas Eve, the evening wore on, fighting between the Germans and the British finally gave way to a confusing silence. After a short while, a lone soldier began singing “Silent Night”. Slowly others joined in until soldiers from both sides were singing together. Remarkably, it is told, the soldiers ended up spending the evening together playing a game of soccer rather than fighting.” Whether this story is true or not, nobody knows for sure. But that’s not so important, because the story exemplifies the true spirit of Christmas.

We too, may want to learn some holiday stress strategies to help us maintain our composure when everyone else, especially our kids, in-laws and others seem to be losing theirs.

1st. Let’s recognize that this period between November 15th and the 2nd of January is a period of heightened stress.

2nd. Remember that “Flexibility” is a friend not a foe.

3rd. Avoid DEBT if at all possible in these difficult times. Debt is an enemy!

4th. Practice Holiday Relaxation Exercises.

-Lamaze techniques work in the check out line and at home as well as the labor room. “Hee-Hee-Ho!”

-Gauge your emotions before you respond to others.

-Daydream as you pass the time in lines.

-Plan a break as you shop to enjoy the sights and sounds of the holidays.

5th. Take leave. Don’t depend on your days off to get things done. Be patient with yourself, and rest.

6th. Develop family traditions unique to your family.

7th. Start shopping early. Small trips often work better than trying to do it in one big blowout.

8th. Plan to give to someone less fortunate. Volunteer as a family to serve someone else.

9th. Keep the spirit of Christmas alive in the home. Remind yourself of the meaning of the festivities.

10th. Most of all, enjoy those around you. Remember Christmas is a time of sharing and giving.

Remember also that the Holiday Season is a time with old and possibly unwanted memories that may pop up and dampen the mood. Make a list of the losses as well as the positives of the year and the feelings they bring. Talk to a close friend or relative about those feelings.

You may even want to find comfort in ways that link you to loved ones that have passed on. You may decide to wear a piece of clothing or jewelry that they owned. Or possibly consider making a small remembrance area where you would like to keep a picture or some mementos. Place a special ornament or maybe light a candle, for them at a set time of the day. Just don’t pretend that the losses aren’t there if you do have them come up. Talk to someone and try not to isolate yourself. You and those we have lost are worth the time and care.

This time of year brings people together in joyful celebration, much like the beautiful Christmas songs we hear in the stores and on the radio. Yet, while some of the aspects of this holiday season may seem artificial, That wonderful feeling, the true spirit of Christmas that brings people together, even enemies — that much we know is definitely real and heartwarming.

I pray all will have a great Holiday Season and remember all the joys and feelings that come with this time of year. Remember also our friends and family who may be away, deployed throughout the world at this time. May God bless and watch over them. Be safe and look forward to magnificent opportunities in the coming year.

Happy Holidays!

It is my hope that this message will help you this month to, “mount up as on eagle’s wings”, and renew a little of your strength to keep moving forward and find joy…

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not be faint.”…(Isaiah 40:31)

Until next month, may God bless you and may God continue to bless our great nation… SEMPER FI

Chaplain Ringo, is the Command Chaplain at MCRD H&S BN, holds a Doctorate of Philosophy in Counseling, and is a Certified Trauma Specialist.

Chaplain Ringo is a good friend and supporter of HealthWalk’s. We are grateful that he is working with us on our integrated total health approach to enhancing and restoring our veterans’ resilience for re-engagement and for their transition from the high operational tempo back to their families and civilian life.