Just the other day, I spoke to an old acquaintance who in her own words was tired of being alone every Christmas. Living abroad, I can understand that family is far and trips home are expensive. But what about friends? You have to be really anti- social (or a real b*%#@) to not have even a single person to chill with on Christmas.

She then proceeded to tell me that perhaps if there was a boyfriend in the mix, things would be better. Maybe so. But if he does not exist, stop wishing he did and find another way to spend Christmas. Not everyone is lucky to spend the holidays with family so you might want to start with those unfortunate few and make the best of it. 

So, are you dreading Christmas because you will be spending the holiday season alone? There is no reason you should have to sit at home feeling lonely and depressed. The beauty about the holidays here is that people are always willing to invite others over. Like I said, the only way you cannot score an invitation is if you have not-so-polite tendencies - you know –the real revolting type.  

You could donate clothes and food to the homeless or buy some small inexpensive toys and take them to the children at a local orphanage. Contact a friend who is spending the holiday alone (trust me, there are plenty of them around). Invite them to share a Christmas meal with you at your home or at a restaurant. Perhaps you could visit an elderly person in your neighborhood that is spending the holiday alone and brighten their day with some good food. I know old people can sometimes be nosey and insist on telling you how to live your life but now is the time to call a truce and be nice!

For my religious sisters, nothing sells Christmas like a Church! Check for listings of holiday events at Churches in your area. Share in the holiday spirit as you enjoy fellowshipping with others while attending special Christmas services; I’m sure there is lots of that happening.

Take flowers to a patient spending Christmas in the hospital. Bring the holiday to them by visiting and singing a Christmas carol or two. Yes, now is the time to put your karaoke skills into real good use. You don’t have to be Mariah or Whitney. In fact, a funny voice might just be the one to put a smile on their face.

So as you can see, there is plenty to do.  Don’t just sit at home this holiday season feeling sorry for yourself. Go out and spread some Christmas cheer by helping those less fortunate than you.

Now that’s the true Christmas spirit! Merry Christmas.