It’s Okay to Feel Sad: A Reminder for the Holidays

As the seasons change and the days become shorter, we find ourselves approaching the holidays; a time that’s

supposed to feel joyful and full of celebration. But for so many people, myself included, this time of year can

bring a heaviness that’s hard to explain.

During the day, we wear a smile, showing the world that we’re okay. But at night, when the world is quiet, or

even in the shower where no one can see, the tears fall. Seasonal depression is real, and it doesn’t

discriminate—it affects people from all walks of life, even those who seem to have it all together.

This holiday season, I also want to acknowledge those who will be celebrating with empty chairs at their

tables—loved ones who have gone on. For some, it’s their mother or father. For others, it’s a brother, sister, child, spouse, grandparent, close friend, or cousin. While some of us are blessed to have tables full of family, laughter, and love, let’s not forget those who are missing someone this season.

If you know someone facing an empty chair, invite them over. Share a meal, a conversation, or just your presence. Sometimes, the smallest acts of kindness can bring light to someone’s darkest moments. Let’s look out for one another and make sure no one has to sit alone in their grief.

This is my letter to myself and to others who feel the same way. It’s a reminder that we’re not alone, and it’s

okay to feel what we’re feeling.

Dear Me (and Anyone Else Who Needs This),

I see you. I see the weight you’re carrying, even when you’re trying so hard to push through it. I see the tears

you let fall in the quiet moments when no one else is around. And I see the guilt that sneaks in, whispering that you shouldn’t feel this way because you have so much to be grateful for. Let me tell you something: It’s okay to feel sad. It doesn’t mean you’re ungrateful or broken. It means you’re human.

Lately, the world feels heavier, doesn’t it? Everywhere we look, there’s negativity. Social media seems like it

thrives on chaos—the algorithm loves drama, bad news, and arguments. Television highlights the worst in people, and even reality shows that once felt like a guilty pleasure now feel like they drain your spirit. It’s exhausting trying to hold onto hope in a world that sometimes feels like it thrives on the opposite.

And then there’s the season itself. The shorter days, the earlier darkness—they creep in and settle over everything. Seasonal depression is real, and it doesn’t care how blessed or happy you know you should feel. It just arrives, uninvited, and takes up space in your heart.

I know that feeling too well. I try to fight it, to remind myself of all the good things in my life: my beautiful kids, who are my greatest joy; my friends, who love me and are loyal beyond measure; my partner, who treats me like a princess and reminds me every day what it feels like to be cherished; my parents, who are still here and have given me more love than I could ever deserve. I am so blessed. I know that. And yet... I still feel

this sadness.

Let me tell you something else: That’s okay too. Gratitude doesn’t erase sadness, and sadness doesn’t erase

gratitude. You can hold both at the same time. You are allowed to feel everything you’re feeling.

On the hard nights, when the tears come and the weight feels unbearable, remind yourself that this is not forever. You’re not weak for feeling this way. You’re human. And even in these moments, you are strong—you’ve made it through every tough season before, and you will make it through this one too.

When the world feels overwhelming, step back. It’s okay to log off social media, turn off the TV, and choose

peace over chaos. It’s okay to rest. It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to reach out for help, whether it’s from a friend, a loved one, or a professional. You are not alone, and you don’t have to carry this alone.

You’re not going crazy. You’re not weak. You’re simply navigating a hard season, and you’re doing the best you can. And that is enough.

So, give yourself grace. Let yourself rest. And know that brighter days are coming. Until then, hold onto the small moments of light: the sound of your child’s laughter, the warmth of a friend’s hug, the way your partner looks at you like you’re magic. Those moments matter, even when the sadness feels big.

And one more thing: You are not the negativity the world tries to shove in your face. You are the light, the joy, and the love that this world desperately needs. Even on your hardest days, you are a gift.

Take it one moment, one breath, one day at a time. You’ll make it through. You always do.

With love,

Me