Many of us struggle with Christmas. Not just this year, but every year. In the face of everything going on, everything we see, the seemingly incessant trials of a turbulent society and years of war, just what is the reason for the holiday? It can be particularly difficult for those experiencing the working end of a first responder Christmas or the distant melancholy of a deployed military Christmas. Then there are those who have come home and wonder why they’re alive and enjoying the holidays of someone else they knew.

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

For those in the military, law enforcement, first responder jobs, the ER, or similar roles, the holidays hit differently. You see the best of humanity, but you often see the worst of it, too—domestic disputes, accidents, people who’re decidedly not happy to see you, and worse. Every day, no matter the day. That loneliness seems to amplify when the rest of the world is celebrating. It’s easy to get cynical when you’re on shift while everyone else is opening presents. But sometimes, you need a reminder of what you’re actually protecting.

Today, we run a short piece by guest author Alan Lambertson on his response to these challenges. How about you comment below with your solution? Mad Duo

Originally published Dec. 25th, 2014. 

What is Christmas? 

Alan Lambertson 

What is Christmas? What is it, really? I can’t get in touch with the day, with the intent of the holiday, the Holy Day. I just cannot, no matter what I do.

What is the meaning, the feeling, the cheer? I have lost it, I no longer possess the The Spirit. I see anger, hostility, depravity, advantage; despair, failure, dominance. I cannot see the love, cheer or celebration. No matter what I do, I cannot.

I see people hurting people; taking advantage of one another, hurting one another. Selfishness does not stop because the calendar changes to December 25th.

But as I speak with an old friend, wish her a Merry Christmas, no gifts, no pretense, just taking time from my day to devote to another human being who has endured more than I or many others I know, I understand the Meaning of the Season. To love, to share this experience, regardless of the reason.

First Responder Christmas

Just because you see, have seen, or know that evil and selfishness and other terrible compulsions exist…know also that a simple hello, a simple sharing of joy, of this life, can make a tremendous impact.

So with that, I learned, I believe I learned, the true meaning of this Holiest of Days. And with that, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Holy Days to you all.

Alan Lambertson