The holidays can be totally magical. But when you're someone who doesn't have a place to go, for whatever the reason, magic is the last thing on your mind. You're just worried about making it through.
The truth is, not everyone has somewhere to go on the most special days of the year. Not everyone has a close family, and some families simply don't make a habit of gathering. Others have obligations that make holiday gatherings too difficult.
That doesn't change the fact that feeling like the only person in the world without somewhere to be is really tough. It can feel tremendously isolating. It's no wonder that the holiday season, a time that should be joyous, is also the time of year when many people experience a major uptick in symptoms of depression.
Making it harder to feel welcome is the fact that so many people, regardless of how kind or welcoming they truly are, get downright traditional about the holidays. Instead of opening their homes, they keep to a rigid guest list.
But isn't that kind of the opposite of the holiday spirit?
While it makes sense that people have specific ideas about how they want to spend their holidays, sometimes it leads to overlooking how we can make someone else's holiday special, or even manageable. And honestly, that's really important, especially during the season of snow, love, and laughter.
Here's why opening your home to someone with no place to go really matters.
1. It could be exactly what that person needs.
Most people don't like to admit when they're struggling, especially during the holidays. But it should be assumed that most people who have absolutely no place to go or no one to gather with are going to be experiencing some negative feelings.
Inviting someone into your home to share a meal can be a powerful way to let them know that they matter. It can make someone who's struggling feel absolutely uplifted in a challenging time. And because we know suicide rates are significantly higher around the holidays, that shouldn't be taken lightly. Extending that hand can be a game changer.
2. You might just make a new friend.
While a lot of people's instincts say that the holidays should be just for family, where is that written? Opening up your home to someone whom you wouldn't normally think to have over can be impactful for them, but it can also be impactful for you. You might even just make a lifelong friend.
3. You'll set a great example for the rest of your family.
Traditions can be extremely important to hold onto for a lot of different reasons. For most people, when it comes to the way they spend the holidays, those traditions don't include inviting stragglers over! But the truth is, opening your home to someone in need can be a new and wonderful tradition to embrace. Not only that, it will set a great example for your kids, or the rest of your family, who may one day follow suit.
4. It's the true embodiment of the holiday spirit.
Plenty of people talk a big talk when it comes to embracing the "holiday spirit." But how many people really walk the walk? Truly, there is no way to show kindness more than to allow someone into your home who would otherwise be on their own.
It's the absolutely embodiment of "the holiday spirit," or kindness, and acceptance.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
