The Christmas season is now upon us, along with the accompanying “between time.” The week sandwiched between holidays when time, diet and waking patterns lose all meaning. How much turkey leftovers can I eat? I would rather not answer that question. This may be a good time for a reminder not to burn all your gift wrap at once, as it is a major cause of chimney fires this time of year. Most of your volunteer fire department members are, very deservingly, in their pajamas at this very moment.
With the solstice behind us, the days are lengthening, bringing us the return of our life-giving sun. We should feel this light at the end of the tunnel we have been in, but that may seem like a stretch right now. This year has been hard on most everyone. We are all in this storm together but we are not in the same boat. We need to find within ourselves the understanding that others have troubles, as we all do, some worse, some less so. Now is the time to make our strongest effort to be kind to our fellow humans and to ourselves. I have expressed frustration in the past with some who are reluctant to follow health guidelines, but right now the pickle we are in is of such an international scale that these issues pale. Without access to mRNA, the poorer countries have become a soup pot for this foe to simmer in and gather strength and that points to a failure of indecisive and selfish governments and money-hungry industry. We expected better.
As our calendar year comes to a close, there are so many things that have become tradition for us, family, friends, imbibing (get a ride!), tuning in to the East Coast countdown on the 31st so young children can be whisked off to bed by 9:15 p.m. PST. My year has had its ups and downs like everyone else, but it looks like I will make it through. Another year older is something not afforded to all. Everyone around us carries their own burden, mostly in silence. Sometimes we need to remind ourselves that we live in one of the most beautiful places on earth, surrounded by an incredibly caring and active community, and if the struggle becomes too much, there are people a short reach away who would gladly help you shoulder your burden. Reach out, to your friends, family, or Google “Bounceback,” an online BC Health initiative for help.
This is my last column for the year, missed last week as life overwhelmed me for a bit and my tender heart can only take so much. Feeling somewhat better now, thanks to the love of friends and family. I have had the privilege to report on my community for these past 116 weeks (but who’s counting?) and hope to continue for many more to come. Happy Holidays and my message for 2021? Don’t let the door hit you on the arse on the way out!
