Heartbreaking Christmas day stories
(Higher Perspective) Heartbreaking Christmas day stories that remind us that not everyone is joyful this time of year
The supposed most wonderful time of the year is actually the most painful time of the year for some of us. For some, it’s just an in-your-face reminder of our solitude. Others have to explain to their children why they don’t have the means to get them nice gifts like their friends. Then there are those who are missing their lost loved ones extra on the days they can no longer share with them.
Christmas day stories
Whatever the unfortunate circumstances, let’s be mindful of each other. And if these stories remind you of yourself, remember that you’re not alone.
Some are sick
“I spent Thanksgiving, Christmas, and new year’s (all in the same year, in one stay) in an inpatient psychiatric ward when I was 16. Nobody called, picked up the phone or came to visit me.” – legendarywildchicken / Reddit
No matter the illness, no one should spend Christmas locked up in a hospital, surrounded by death, misfortune, and diseases instead of love, comfort, family, and good food. Yet, this is the case for many, especially those whose families have given up on them.
Some don’t have money
“I had just moved to Florida, I had no money, next to no furniture, no family, no friends, and while I technically had a job, I hadn’t started yet. My ex gave me a box of lights and garland but I didn’t have a tree or anything like that. I strung the garland and lights around a stool (one of the few things I did have – a small table and stool I was able to drive down with) and I stared at the lights and drank a bottle of wine alone.” – deleted / Reddit
While a person can make do when they’re alone, having little money on Christmas is even more difficult for bigger families and small children. Children simply can’t understand why they’re different than the others or deserve less, and some families can barely even eat that night let alone host a whole feast.
Some are without family
“My dad died unexpectedly 7 years ago just a week before Christmas. Mom died in October. This year has been the hardest, saddest Christmas. Even beats the year I came home early from work to find my now ex-husband in bed with my best friend.” – idontwhoiamanymore / Reddit
Sometimes Christmas coincides with a difficult time and a period of transition. While getting through the downs is hard on its own, it’s even harder during the holidays without the people you once relied on.
Some have no where to go
“One year I wasn’t permitted to go home for Christmas and had to stay with my foster family. I spent that Christmas in the hand-me-down pajamas I’d worn for three days straight in the cold basement, while I could hear everyone laughing from upstairs. They had other relatives over too. I wasn’t included because I wasn’t a ‘part of the family'”. – strqwberryoreos
Some people are sadly dealt difficult cards by no fault on their own. No matter the level of their resiliency, some things are just outside of their control and not everyone shows them sympathy for it.
Some are grieving
My brother died nine years ago. He was the only one who called me or brought me to his place for Christmas. I have severe rheumatoid arthritis and lung issues and I spend every damned day alone.
Mostly I am fine. But Christmas to New Years is just hell. I mean, at 55 On a disabled pension I do not think that is likely to change. I find ways to, you know, find joy and all of that, but I miss my brother. It is at Christmas I feel it most. Like a lot of people.” – SamhainsJourney / Reddit
Remember that Christmas is difficult for people of all ages. The holiday can hold just as much value for children as it does for older adults.
Some carry a bad memory
“My father left my mother and I for his new girlfriend right before Christmas. He came back on Christmas day with a friend of his to collect his presents from underneath the tree. He said goodbye to the family cat but not to me, his only child.” – deleted
When a traumatic or sad event takes place during the holiday season, it can taint that season for the rest of that person’s life. The association of the memory with the timing is too difficult to get past for some, so every year during the holiday season, it feels like they have to relive that memory all over again.
