With Easter upon us this week, now seems a good time to remind readers about the importance of family and cherishing one another.
Family can be challenging. Family can be aggravating. But, at the end of the day, family is also the bedrock of who we are, and the support which gets us through tough moments.
Holidays can be particularly tough, particularly if we have lost loved ones recently. They can also be tough for other reasons when old arguments are renewed and old grievances aired.
Remember to take a breath and change the scenery to avoid those high stress conversations. It is better to walk away with things unsaid than to say too much, which is either hurtful or antagonistic.
While most people can find ways to destress on their own, there are resources in Alberta for those who feel they need a little extra support to get through the holidays.
The Alberta Health Services Mental Health Help Line is a 24 hour, 7 day a week, confidential service that provides support, information and referrals to Albertans experiencing mental health concerns. The number is toll free 1-877-303-2642, and is staffed by personnel with mental health support experience.
Also remember that Easter is a time for forgiveness and renewal which allows us to metaphorically put the concerns of the past year behind us in order to focus on bettering ourselves going forward.
Whether you are Christian or not, it is a sentiment anyone can get behind.
So cherish this Easter with your loved ones or friends. And if that is not your lot, may the blessings find you in your solitude.
As social media personality and author Anita Krizzan once said: “Spring will come and so will happiness. Hold on. Life will get warmer."
