Make Holiday Connections and Share Joy
The holidays can be a wonderful time of year. Being surrounded by festive music, decorations, and family gatherings creates holiday cheer and togetherness.
The holidays may be stressful for those dealing with deployment or geographical separation.
However, it is still possible to celebrate the season, sharing joy through meaningful holiday connections.
Tips for holiday connectedness:
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Keep family traditions or create new ones. Traditions form lasting bonds. Start traditions with friends if you can’t be with family during the holidays.
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Spend time together in unique ways. Use social media or video chatting to stay connected. Recorded video messages can be shared throughout the holiday season. Make holiday cards to inspire creativity. Host holiday parties and play dates for children.
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Celebrate with friends, neighbors, or fellow Marines. Plan a volunteer activity such as Toys for Tots or visits to senior citizen centers. A Friendsgiving meal promotes social bonding and gratitude for supportive networks relied upon throughout the year.
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Recharge and reflect on the upcoming year. Take this moment of holiday downtime for quiet, personal reflection. Review successes and set new goals for the upcoming year. Get rest, visit your installation gym or recreation center, or reconnect with hobbies.
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Practice gratitude for loved ones. Spend time writing letters or calling friends and family, thanking them for their love and support. Gratitude helps refocus on what an individual has, instead of what they may not.
Contact the Family Advocacy Program, Semper Fit, or the Single Marine Program for more information.