Stress Piles Up During Holidays
December 18, 2008
The holiday season is often referred to as the most wonderful time of the year. Yet the shopping malls are the most hostile, the roads are more dangerous, and loneliness begins to sink in to those who do not have family or other loved ones.
A more obvious sign of stress are the shopping centers around the holidays. Holiday shoppers are intense. It is not uncommon to see two eager women going head to head over a sweater. It was reported that there were even workers trampled on the crazy “Black Friday.”
Furthermore, when the roads become slick and covered in ice, drivers that once considered themselves as advanced and safe drivers, begin to waver in their certainty. Reaching for a dropped cell phone or glove could cause a serious and potentially fatal accident, along with stepping on the break pedal too late, and sliding into a median.
Along with angry shoppers and unsafe roads, the holiday season can bring an overwhelming sense of loneliness. Those who have lost loved ones, or have no family that lives nearby may dread hearing music that sings of tenderness and companionship. Along with family affairs, some family members come together to celebrate the holidays just for tradition. Crabby aunts and uncles may not want to put up with young and hyper nieces and nephews. More often than not, family has people in their tree that they may not get along with, or even want to spend a moment’s time of celebration with.
With struggling bank accounts, the holidays may even cause stress on parents who may not have the money to buy the new iPod that their son or daughter wants. They may not even be able to buy the plane tickets to go visit their eccentric family. Because you can’t put a price on unending love, money even becomes an issue when asking yourself how much you should spend on your mother’s present.
Being safe and courteous are aspects of life that can improve any daily experience. Giving your time instead of a gift could change someone’s life. Accepting the people around you and caring about family may be the cure for holiday blues. The season of giving has one main purpose, and that is to spread cheer and happiness to all walks of life. Maybe that purpose has been lost among the chilly weather and expensive gifts.
By Kelsie Meier, editor-in-chief
