Rediscovering magic of the holidays despite anxiety

Dear Annie: While I don’t hate holidays, nor dread them, as “Holiday Anxiety” expressed, I don’t go “all in” either.

All my close family has gone to their rewards. I’m 61 and find myself refreshingly able to control my own life.

I do miss the family traditions, the scents and the decorations; I am also now aware of the time and effort my parents and grandparents put in to create these memories, and I am grateful. For “Holiday Anxiety,” I suggest:

1. I make gift baskets for shelter animals and their keepers. Cat litter, dog food, paper towels and sanitizer might not seem very “gifty,” but you drop some off with gift cards and pet toys, and you’re a hero.

2. Our country is chocka-block with kids who eat ketchup sandwich meals, if they eat at all. Shames me, ‘cuz even though I’m a disabled veteran, I have no excuse for being fat, ‘cept I eat too much and have too much. I give through the VA, Catholic Charities, the Salvation Army and do food drives. 3. Walk the streets and absorb the atmosphere. See the kids, bright-eyed and full of wonder; look at the window displays. Smell the food, the firewood, the goodies.

4. If possible, go ice skating. It is impossible to be bitter and holiday hatin’ on a pair of skates, especially if the ‘40s music is on. Try. You can’t, even on your butt.

5. A small decoration can work wonders. I have a fourfoot artificial tree, decorated with heirloom ornaments.

6. Enjoy seasonal music. Listen to the Christian and secular, feel and fall into the lyrics. You’ll feel better.

And if your writer can do none of this, that’s fine, too. Some folk just can’t. I wish I could reach out and share my take on the holidays with “Holiday Anxiety,” ‘cuz I used to think I hated them, too.

I’m alone, but not lonely. I’m not a Christian, but love the idea of Christmas. I enjoy the season, simply because I enjoy the pleasure of others. Peace, safety, and love upon you and yours, ma’am, in this time of turmoil and disruption.

Dear Ryan: I couldn’t have said it better myself. Thank you for sharing and spreading some holiday cheer.