dreading christmas

[bradfordbantam]

:(being single at christmas is no fun. i do not have a large family and will be spending the day with my mum . But at christmas when i see couples together i feel sad and lonely i know i should get out more but i do not like pubs and clubs or stopping out late.

[nuttyloaf]

Hey, Bradford Bantam -and anyone else out there dreading being single at Christmas - just take some time out to offer up those feelings to God. Before you start your prayer, prepare a little by having another prayer of thanks/praise to hand, one of your own or from a book. And have the Bible beside you too.

After you tell God all your feelings about fearing a lonely time then tell Him one thing you are glad for this Christmas time (anything) Then use the other prayer and the Bible. Read something encouraging ( letters of St Paul or a Psalm?) and know you are loved by your heavenly father.

Then go on through the Christmas days. Avoid some of the traditional things if it makes it hard for you. Just keep finding one little thing to praise God for and lift your self to Him in praise and thankfullness.

This is my 3rd Christmas alone and although it has got easier it takes some doing - like 12 months of the year - to build up my life. Work on it and please do be so glad you have your Mum. I am so glad I have my parents. We are such a small family, now smaller by one person, and I am just so glad I have them by me.

What I am dreading right now is taking some exams in June which are important to me at work. Between now and Exams I am looking forward to some NutLoaf to celebrate Christmas.
Every blessing to you - Nuttyloaf

[bayblue]

firstly remember you are never alone (think of footprints!)

secondly, if you think you might be on your own at christmas, remember there are lots of opportunities for you to get out and meet ppl :)

One of the local churches here has a xmas day party lunch for the local elderly/disabled/homeless who would otherwise be spending time on their own. Its a great opportunity to serve and realise how grateful we should be, and also meet some very interesting people who will enjoy having a chat, a hot meal and fellowship with YOU

I used to work in a home for the elderly and i always volunteered to do the xmas day shift, as it would break my heart to know there were residents there who weren't taken out on xmas day, or even had a single visitor. It would be a relaxing, fun time where we would share stories, enjoy some nice food and celebrate that special day together. Ask at a home near you if you could do the same, they would welcome your genoristy.

I am sure you can think of other people/places near you, just remember God has plans for all of us, and if we are destined to be with "someone special" next Christmas, then maybe his intention is for us to go and find some special people ourselves.

I've just joined this site, by the way - hello :)

YIC

Bayblue