Discovering the True Meaning of Christmas: A Personal Journey

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For many, Christmas is a time filled with family, joy, and togetherness. But what happens when life changes and the holiday you once cherished becomes a reminder of loss? For seven years, Christmas was a lonely time for me. I lost my wife, Karen, to cancer on July 9, 2010. Seven years later, almost to the day, I lost my mother. Without them, Christmas felt empty — a season of solitude, despite living across the street from my sister. However, this year, I discovered a renewed sense of joy and purpose, and I want to share that journey with you.

Finding Purpose Through SurfSideSafe

Loneliness can creep in when we're alone on special days like Christmas. But over time, I've realized that having a purpose in life can fill that void.

SurfSideSafe, the social media platform I've built, gives me that purpose. It's a place where people connect, share, and feel safe, and it reminds me daily that I'm never truly alone.

Purpose has a way of shining light into the darkest corners of life.

The Gift of Self-Care

Over the years, I've made it a tradition to prepare an elaborate Christmas dinner for myself. At first, it felt like a distraction from the loneliness, but I came to realize that it's a celebration of self-worth.

This year, I outdid myself: A rib roast, a turkey, dressing, homemade cranberry sauce, asparagus casserole, baked ziti, cherry pie with pretzel crust, and homemade rolls.

It's not about indulgence; it's about honoring the fact that I deserve joy and good company — even if that company is my own.

Rediscovering Faith

This Christmas, I decided to break an old tradition of watching my favorite holiday movie, Scrooge (1951) on Christmas Eve. Instead, I attended midnight Mass at Saint Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church in Birmingham, AL. It was the first time I'd been to Mass on Christmas Eve since Karen passed, and it was an emotional, transformative experience.

During the service, I felt a powerful connection to the true meaning of Christmas — the birth of Jesus Christ, the greatest gift we've ever received.

Reflecting on that night, I realized how Christmas is about more than decorations, meals, or traditions. It's about love, hope, and gratitude. It's a time to celebrate the day God introduced Himself to us in human form — a gift that allows us to feel closer to Him than ever before.

A Message for Those Spending Christmas Alone

If you find yourself alone during the holidays, know that it's okay to celebrate Christmas in your own way.

The joy of the season comes from what you put into it. Make the food you love. Watch the movies that bring you comfort. Reflect on the blessings in your life, no matter how small they may seem.

Most importantly, remember that Christmas is about Jesus Christ and the love He represents.

What SurfSideSafe Taught Me About Community

At its core, SurfSideSafe is about connection. It's a platform where people can share their lives, find support, and create memories.

This Christmas, I saw parallels between my journey and what SurfSideSafe offers. Just as I rediscovered the meaning of Christmas, SurfSideSafe helps people rediscover the joy of connection — even if they're physically alone.

It's a reminder that we're never truly alone and isolated. There's always a community ready to welcome us.

A Renewed Christmas Tradition

This year, I started a new tradition by attending midnight Mass. It reminded me that Karen and my mother are still with me, in spirit, celebrating alongside me. And yes, I still watched Scrooge the next night, keeping a beloved tradition alive.

Closing Thoughts

Christmas is what we make it. It's a time to celebrate the ultimate gift, Jesus Christ, and to find joy in our own unique ways. For me, this year was about faith, self-care, and community. It was the best Christmas I've had in years, and it showed me that even in solitude, there is light, love, and purpose.

I hope my story inspires you to find your own meaning in the holiday season, whether you're surrounded by family or spending it on your own. And if you're looking for a place to share your journey, SurfSideSafe is here for you.

Merry Christmas and God Bless You!