Thanksgiving – a heart full of memories and a table with empty seats. I am grateful for kindness of past and present but also at Holiday time I wonder why living my life the best I can, being kind to others and hope filled each day that I am cursed to be alone while trying not to be lonely. I am struggling to smile in a world of people where I feel that I am invisible as God’s ugly, forgotten child. I send blessings to everyone for Peace. Thanksgiving – Unto Thee I Give Praise and Thanks.
Struggling to Smile by Kathleen Doll Cristofaro
November 5, 2019 by ElderChicks
10 Responses
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Beautiful and moving piece telling once again the story of the holidays and how they are not all always about a large loving family enjoying each other’s company and lives. Holidays are a challenge for those of us who are not hooked up with family or friends – for whatever reason, there are really so many as we age and people move, die or get sick. Thanks for telling your story.
Invite those far from home,like military people. They understand to well the lonliness of holidays
Greetings CC – I AM a disabled Veteran so thank you for your lovely thought – I am going to be useful doing dishes while a local chef has an open house for anyone needing a meal – I just want to feel useful and thankful too..take care
P.S. just looking at a book by Angela Doll Carlson-maybe related?
Hi CC – no relation but I am working a book about my brother and I servicing together in the USAF. He nicknamed me Doll after the Troll dolls in the 60’s
I can feel your feelings as they are the same as mine. My husband of 63 year died last year and even though I have wonderful devoted children there is a very empty place in my life. Stay well🌺
This is so sweet and touching. And, unfortunately, I share your sentiments. I am noticing that I have been completely marginalized as the old person by people around me. It can be a struggle. And my grown children have developed lives that do not include me. This is the way things are these days.
We are a growing cohort of still sentient citizens with much to contribute and value in a culture in which elders are marginalized. The tide is turning, I believe, and we’re finding support and encouragement in each other. Watch for “How Seniors Are Saving the World” – out in June.
I read this a few days ago but just now had a chance to reply. It’s hard to be alone for the holidays – my heart goes out to you. I loved reading the replies from others on this site that are able to share with you. Even though we aren’t there with you physically, we are with you in spirit and understand what you’re going thru.
Thank you for the “hug” from afar…it made me smile