09/12/2025
I've always struggled with accepting the 'joy' of this time of the year. Mainly because of commercialized happiness. I can't do 'fake' happiness and never will. Fiona loved to believe in the magic of Christmas. Not in wanting extravagant presents, but in the want of spending time together. Of seeing this time of the year as a moment to be thankful for what we have, rather than wanting what we don't have. She loved Christmas movies, nights in with a bottle or two of Baileys, home cooked food (she didn't cook, but did set the table lol). She loved having her friends and family close by, to party, dance and sing long into the night.
A caveat:
I'd beg anyone who feels pressured to 'perform' the act of happiness this Christmas to be selfish and do what pleases you. Close the door and lock yourself away if you can't deal with it. Don't let others decide what makes you happy. Don't let them tell you that you need to take part because everyone else will be disappointed. Go for a walk on the beach, take yourself on a hike, do what's best for you. Have a chicken curry for Xmas dinner!.
None of us who are bereaved of the one person who defined our happiness, will see the world as we did before. We are navigating a landscape that's unfamiliar. Don't break us by trying to force us to be involved in your Christmas cheer.
My girl💔
