Holiday Outreach

For most of us, this is a very festive and happy time of year. We look forward to having time with both family and friends and sharing old memories and creating new ones. We're busy shopping, preparing for parties and visiting loved ones and enjoying the spirit of the season. There just doesn't seem to be enough time to accomplish all that we plan.

Yet, there are some of us who aren't in the spirit nor enjoying the holidays. Some are lonely and have no one to spend time sharing the moments. Others may have just recently lost a close loved one/partner and, once again, are lonely or unable to re-enter a social life without their late partner. Then there are the elderly, many who have outlived their family and friends. Some have been estranged from their biological families since initially coming out to them or were forced to leave the family once the family discovered they were gay.

We are all aware of the statistics regarding depression suffered by some during the holidays. Many of us may have observed the symptoms of withdrawal and mood swings of others or have experienced them firsthand. Then, there is the sad reality of an increase in suicides, especially this time of year. Most of these individuals lack the resources and support systems to help them cope and survive the season.

My partner and I always make it a point to invite those we know that would otherwise be alone to our social gatherings  that we host. It is our way of reaching out to those within our community and present them the opportunity to socialize and to meet new people. A chance for them to practice those often underused social skills and to enter into a festive environment.

It doesn't take any extra effort to try to make a difference in the lives of others. However, you might be surprised at the difference that doing so makes in yours.