It seems like everyone should be filled with joy and laughter during the holiday season.

In many cases, however, people tend to be in a tough scenario. A loyal listener of Delilah shares her story about how her family found their Christmas spirit during a time of struggle.

Not everyone is filled with joy during this should-be happy holiday season. Some people are struggling with loss or ailments or divorce or some other issue that is devastating their heart and their spirit right now. One such woman is loyal listener Elizabeth who shares how her family found their Christmas spirit during a tough time…

I am a single mother of two grown children and a son-in-law I adore. My children still cherish all of our family traditions; from cookies and bows to candles and especially the decorating of the Christmas tree. The past 16 months or so have been particularly tough on us all. First, Hurricane Sandy followed by the nor'easter had us scrambling to stay warm and fed, and I have been weighed down with worry. My son was disabled in a terrible accident last summer, and my daughter has endured a risky pregnancy for 8 1/2 months. We just couldn't seem to find the Christmas spirit.

I remembered your story about the elves coming to decorate your house with lights, and the warm Christmas glow you felt as you arrived home. You made me realize that our Christmas spirit is alive and well; it's just different this year, and I almost didn't see it. My son took his first steps a week ago; my daughter and her unborn child are healthy and strong. We are almost fully recovered from Sandy. Our Christmas "elf," my grandson, is expected 10 days before Santa. Nathaniel is a gift from God and is sure to fill our home and our family with all of the joys of the season. He will be our Christmas light, shining brighter than the star at the top of any Christmas tree.

My family and I have found a new Christmas spirit this year, even though we will forego most of our family traditions. I thank you for your inspiring story, reminding me to look for the true meaning of Christmas in a new way. One Christmas tradition our family has followed for years is watching the Polar Express in front of the Christmas tree behind a big bowl of popcorn. I cry every time. For my children and my new grandson, would you play Josh Groban's "Believe" from the movie soundtrack? It would mean so much to us.

Holiday blessings,

Elizabeth

If things aren’t the same this year because circumstances aren’t the same, try to think of Christmas in a new way this year. Don’t try to keep pace with the hustle and bustle. Do something that is healing for your soul. Consider your blessings. Start a new tradition. If someone you love has passed on, build a new tradition around a memorial to them. And remember, the One who can give you peace is the One we are celebrating this month, so think on that as you look to reawaken your spirit. God bless you.

How do YOU handle the tough moments in life? Share by commenting below!

Rachel Specht contributed to this post

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