Away for the Holidays
Dear Annie: Earlier this year, I moved to the East Coast for my first job out of college. My parents, siblings and entire extended family are all back on the West Coast. Overall, I like it out here. I’ve been keeping so busy with my new job that I’ve hardly had time to be homesick at all.
But now that it’s the holiday season, I find myself missing them a lot. I get nostalgic thinking about all the Christmas mornings my sisters and I spent together. This year, I have to work a half day on Christmas, so I won’t be flying home. Originally, my roommate was also going to be around, so we were planning on having our own little celebration, with eggnog and a Christmas movie marathon. But she just decided she’s going to drive home to spend the weekend with her family.
I don’t want to complain about having to work on Christmas, because really, I should be grateful to have a job when millions of people are out of work. But I just can’t help feeling sad that I’m not going to get to hug my parents. At least I won’t be totally alone. I am taking care of my roommate’s dog. Any tips for cheering up? — Blue Christmas
Dear Blue: It’s homesickness season, and when you’re away from loved ones on Christmas, there’s not a pill in the world that can fully cure the heartache. But gratitude is the best antidote we’ve got. So keep counting those blessings. Though you can’t see your family members in person today, you can still talk to them. That is a gift.
Consider stopping by a retirement home and visiting with patients for an hour or two, or visit VolunteerMatch .org for other ideas on how to give back during the holidays. Your mood will get an instant boost from helping others.
I hope you can make a trip home soon, but in the meantime, stay thankful. Merry Christmas.
Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com. To find out more about Annie Lane and read features by other Creators Syndicate columnists and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.