Greensboro's African American Community Newspaper since 1967
The winter holiday season is a wonderful time of the year. It is when we make that special effort to see family and friends. It is when we carry out and celebrate our longtime family traditions. We remember grandma’s coconut cake, Uncle Freddy’s ribs made with care and Mama’s homemade biscuits.
There are many good memories created during the holidays and unfortunately there are also some tough times too.
We need to remember that everyone does not have those warm happy feelings during this time of the year. Some people may have feelings of loneliness, neglect or even abuse. I have seen patients who have had such trauma during their childhood during the Holidays that it was their least favorite time of the year.
So, look closely at your friends. Look at how they are handling the holiday season. Be sensitive if they are not as excited about them as you may be. Understand that we all have different experiences in life. Do not force your views upon them.
Be sensitive to your friends with different religious beliefs.
Be very sensitive to friends and family that have lost loved ones this year and in recent years. If they have those wonderful holiday memories, this will likely be a difficult time for them as they make their first, second or even fifth holiday journey without their loved one(s). It may take several years before they form a new normal of what the holidays are like, and you can help.
Remember that our children and young people may view the holidays differently. Yes, there is excitement and expectations. Make sure you allow children to have reasonable expectations by managing them. Focus on the traditions, relationships and not the gifts.
Also remember your children may encounter people or even family members they have never met and do not know. This kind of encounter can be uncomfortable for them, especially for young children, so meter these new people out in small doses.
Try to keep a reasonable schedule for children and for yourself so when it is time to return to school and hit the books, there are fewer problems regarding sleep and feeling tired. The body really does better when it is on a consistent schedule.
Remember, you do not have to attend every event to which you are invited. Curate your events to the ones you will enjoy.
Limit your exposure to toxic people and toxic events. You get to decide who you allow in your world. You can have fun without overeating and without overindulging in alcohol or other drugs.
Take this time to check in with older family members and friends. Touch base with those who may be ill to make sure they are safe and have adequate shelter, heat and food. Take a good look at them and observe the real situation, especially if you are visiting from out of town. They can fake it for a day or two if not properly observed.
Enjoy your holidays, be sensitive to those around you. Live your lifestyle not diet. Indulge in health.
Dr. Veita Bland is a board-certified Greensboro physician and hypertension specialist. Dr. Bland’s radio show, “It’s a Matter of Your Health,” can be heard live on Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. on N.C. A&T State University’s WNAA, 90.1 FM. Listeners may call in and ask questions. The show is replayed on Sirius 142 at 5 p.m. on Wed. Email Dr. Bland at ideas@blandclinicpa.com.
