You can get through the holidays
By Jennifer Samara Shuber
Certified Family Law Specialist
Holidays are tough for many people. But when you are newly single, the idea of celebrating any holiday can be particularly difficult to fathom.
The holidays are the locus of many traditions and memories. The images of perfect happy families are everywhere, since holidays are about connections, family and community. About coming together and giving thanks for our many blessings. And you are probably wondering what you have to be thankful for. Give yourself a break. Expect your first holidays alone to be a challenge.
Here are some pointers on how to get through – and maybe even enjoy – holidays to come.
Make sure to celebrate: The break-up is not the end of your life or your family. It is not the end of your happiness. Yes, you may have to change how you celebrate the occasion. But the true meaning of the holiday has not disappeared. The holidays endure through everything. Because of that fact, they provide stability and consistency. They reassure us that there are some things that will not change. This experience, as hard as it is, may bring a fresh perspective and a new understanding.
Don’t beat yourself up: Be patient with yourself and your family. Yes, you will be nostalgic. You’re only human. Sure, you will miss the good old days, but remember: the good old days weren’t always good, and tomorrow ain’t as bad as it seems (to quote Billy Joel). Accept that there may be tears. Take it one holiday, and one day, at a time. Don’t put all of your attention on how things were. Focus on how great things could be and take the necessary steps to get there.
Compromise: Be flexible. Keep the traditions you want, but try new things too. Finding a creative way to celebrate may be the start of a new tradition.
Think of your kids. Don’t let your feelings colour the holiday for your children. Keep their health and happiness at the forefront of your mind. Although you should never speak ill of your ex in front of the kids, it is particularly important not to do so at holiday time.
It may be hard to have to share the holiday with your ex, but try to be civil and flexible when you do. Don’t complain about having to “share” the children for the holidays. Likely they already feel guilty about having to divide their time between you two. Remember – the children have their own feelings of loss to deal with. Be sympathetic to that. Listen. Complaining will just make things worse, and may actually make the children resentful. You don’t want to make the holiday a time they’ll never forget for all the wrong reasons.
Your kids still need both parents. Make them feel happy and special about having the two of you to celebrate the holiday with.
List what you are thankful for. This may be the hardest of all. It is easy to spend the holidays thinking about how the break-up has changed your and your children’s lives. In the midst of divorce, it’s difficult to appreciate the good things that are still a part of your life. Try to step back and focus on enjoying, celebrating and making the most of what you do have.
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