Ready or Not...

Hello To All,

I wasn’t prepared for the shock, but before I knew it my eyes gazed upon a Christmas commercial!!

Growing up in chilly New York has created a challenge for “warming up” to the holidays in Florida. The first time I saw a Santa perched on top of a palm tree I whispered, “There’s something not right about that.” Call me crazy, but it’s hard to wrap my mind around Reindeer on a golf course.  

Whether I’m ready for them or not the holidays have arrived. This time of year often provides good food and fun, but for a number of people the festivities trigger deep sorrow. Therefore, if someone you know is struggling with the holidays the information in this edition should help.

Regardless of the climate or circumstances remember—keep the main thing, the Main Thing—Jesus!!

Your Sister In Florida Flip-Flops,

Handling the Holidays

by Laura Petherbridge

When I was a child the holidays were an elaborate event. My nana prepared an exceptional menu of meats, fish, pastas and pastries that could make angels salivate. I still miss her meatballs!!  

Cousins, aunts and uncles, godparents and various other people filled the house with boisterous talking, bellowing laughter, and an occasional argument. Nana’s girlfriends spoke only Italian, and they smelled a little odd. But their pinch to your cheek, or bone-crunching hug only added to the fun.

However, October through December can be an excruciatingly painful time for those experiencing a loss. In addition to the death of a loved one, divorce, illness, family trauma, job loss, or moving to a new location can cause depression during the holidays.

If the holidays are causing you stress or anxiety here are a few practical tips
... [click here to read]

2008 hasn’t been a good year for my brother. He used to be outgoing but now he is depressed and dreads the upcoming holidays. What can I do to help him?

My congratulations go to you for your compassion. Many people don’t take the time to think about how the holidays may be affecting others, therefore I commend you for your insight.

The first thing I suggest is to discuss the holidays with your brother. Review the schedule and find out if there is a specific time which might be particularly stressful for him. It may be Thanksgiving afternoon, or Christmas morning. Each family has differing traditions, but talking about it beforehand is significant. Isolation is a common problem during the holidays so discuss a plan that might help to ease his pain. Be willing to change a tradition, or re-arrange your schedule this year.  

Another thing you can do is to help him shop for gifts. For many hurting people the sights, sounds, and smells of the mall during holiday time are overwhelming. Therefore, if you can assist him with that task it might help.

Don’t forget to ask your brother if he would like to help you put up your tree this year. He may not be ready for a tree himself but he might enjoy the festivities at another home. If he isn’t up to that perhaps invite him to a movie, dinner or sporting event that he enjoys.

If you fear that your brother’s depression may be suicidal contact your local suicide prevention hotline or his counselor. They can give you suggestions and warning signs. And don’t forget church support groups. Being around other people who are struggling can help your brother understand that he is not alone, and that there is hope.

If he is willing to attend church extend an invitation, but don’t pressure him or preach. Hurting people need compassion, not a sermon.

“There is no fear in love; instead perfect love drives out fear.” I  John 4:18a
Like a massage for the mind, this workshop transforms frenzied and anxious thoughts from turmoil to tranquility. Laura shares how Christ can annihilate the fear factor in your life.

Click here to read more about Laura's other speaking topics.

Nov 3 - How to heal after divorce

Listen to Laura's interview on the Debbie Chavez show by clicking here. Scroll down to the Nov. 3rd show, first hour.

Resource
Give-Away Contest:

Last Month’s Winner: Sharon Custer from Life Church in Greesnburg PA

This month’s resource give-away contest winner will receive Reflections of God's Holy Land: A Personal Journey Through Israel.by Eva Marie Everson. Check out her website by clicking here.

Be the 8th person to contact me. To enter this month's Resource Give-Away Contest, enter simply by contacting me.

For more about this book
check out Eva Marie Everson website by clicking here.