Heroes. They walk beside us everyday. They come in many different shapes and sizes. Heroes have the strength and courage to face their journey and create their own path.
During the holidays, these heroes are often quietly fighting their battles, not wanting to ruin the spirit of the holidays. That’s where you come in. The friend, the tribe, the daughter, the mother, the sister, the father, the brother … whatever your role, make sure your hero understands that you are here, walking the journey with him or her.
They need you, now … more than ever. They need to know their battle is not forgotten, and not lost during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Their daily struggles are real, and important to you.
I bet you are asking yourself so many questions right now. I know I do certainly.
Here’s what often runs through my head …
- How do I send my love during the holidays?
- How do I show my support?
- How can I show I care?
- What does my friend need?
- More importantly, what does she want?
- What do I say? How do I say it? What if I say the wrong thing?
Now, here’s what I can tell you.
Nothing. Absolutely nothing is more important than your presence, from near or far. And, stop questioning, yourself. Deep down, you know what is right for your friend or loved one. But to get you started, here’s what I remind myself of what I CAN GIVE, and it is so much more than a wrapped gift under the tree.
- My love.
- My prayers.
- Time together. A coffee date. A phone call.
- An ear to listen.
- A shoulder to lean on.
- A reminder that her strength and courage does not go unnoticed.
- A donation to cancer research.
- An effort to raise awareness in his honor.
- A ride and partner for treatments.
- A home-cooked meal. A grocery run – don’t forget the necessities that no one ever brings, i.e. toilet paper and paper towels.
- Check daily chores off the list – a clean house, taking out the trash, running the kids to practice.
Sometimes, we all need to be reminded that the little things really do make all the difference. While you cannot give them a cure or answers to their many questions, don’t be afraid … don’t be afraid to ask questions or gasp … even the wrong thing.
Go ahead. Ask her how she is feeling, or how he is doing. It’s the holidays. You know they are going through something unimaginable, so don’t act like it’s not happening.
However, here’s the catch. Don’t dwell on it. Celebrate. Simply celebrate that you are present and together. Enjoy the tribe vibes. Enjoy the moment. Enjoy the holidays!
Remember, heroes aren’t given the choice to take this journey. No one asked them if they wanted to fight this battle. No one said, “Hey, we’re going to throw something terrible at you, right now. Is that okay?”
But, alas, it’s a real-life story of “David and Goliath,” where heroes rise above and stand up to the battle, no matter how big and undefeatable it may seem. Today and every day, rain or shine, Christmas or New Year, be David’s biggest fan, loudest cheerleader and most supportive warrior in this battle.
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At Care Center Gifts, we understand that Christmas is a season of giving, so take this opportunity to offer gifts that will nourish their spirit, offer comfort and provide warmth. Please don’t send a gift that treats the illness, but rather a gift for the whole person.
We have done the research for you. We’ve been in your shoes – actually, we are in your shoes – trying to find just the right gift for our friends. While no gift is perfect, we know that a gift sent with love and a prayer will be appreciated and remind our friends of our support during the holidays and through the New Year.
We have several holiday gift options at Cancer Gifts – a division of Care Center Gifts. Please use the promo code, CH15, to receive 15 percent off your complete holiday order. {Promo valid through Dec. 31, 2018.}
And remember, it’s the holidays, be joyful, be present and be uplifting!
– Sarah Brewster, partner, Care Center Gifts
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