Silent Nights
No sound is louder than a hurting heart
Christmas, a time of peace on earth and good will towards men, women and children. Well, it’s supposed to be, right? However, even during this iconic season of remembering and rejoicing, the holidays aren’t always holy or happy.
There is also an assumption that because sadness and loneliness seem to be more pronounced during the Christmas season, suicide is a person’s only option for opting out of their personal pain.
This had led to the hotly debated and misleading “Christmas Suicide” myth, perpetuated by the belief that suicides spike significantly during this most wonderful time of the year.
Even though reputable online resources thankfully report otherwise; loneliness, sadness and suicide are not myths.
The familiar carol, Silent Night, has a different meaning for those whose nights are far from silent or safe. While it seems that everyone else is singing Christmas carols, buying presents and having visions of sugar plums, there are many silent nights that go unnoticed.
My heart goes out to anyone who feels alone, abandoned, or forgotten during this season and at any other time of the year. I may not be with you physically, but I am here nonetheless if you need a friend.
I know it hurts when all is not calm, and all is not bright because of angry voices, terrors and tears. When it’s difficult to sleep in heavenly peace because one feels broken in pieces. When there is a longing for the presence of loved ones in their hearts and home, instead of presents under the tree. When there is an aching and longing for the silent sounds of loneliness to be chased and replaced with laughter, I love you’s, and stories about the good old days.
These trials and tragedies don’t mean you have to be grouchy like the Grinch, or expect coal in your stocking, but it does mean you may have to steel yourself for the normal nuances, stresses and distresses of this holly, jolly—or not so much—Christmas season.
Even if you’re having what Elvis Presley calls a Blue Christmas, remember that you are also the reason for the season. Whether you celebrate the Christ in Christmas or share a heartfelt Happy Holidays. Whether you believe in God, Santa, or just want Christmas to hurry up and get over with, know that your life still and always has great worth.
I may not be able to hold your hand, give you a hug, or remind you personally, but please don’t give up on yourself or your life.
If you know someone who is alone, struggling, or hurting, don’t wait to share some Christmas joy with them. If you need help getting through your own Christmas blues, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
Whether you need a meal, a miracle, or both, there are still good people in this world who can and want to help you.
If you’re in trouble, please call the suicide and crisis hotline at 988 (yes, like 911), or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or visit the website at (https://chat.988lifeline.org)
Hopefully there are also crisis centers in your city and places that provide meals, shelter, clothing and counseling for any experiencing difficulties in their lives, whether it’s a holiday or not.