Cuddled up by the fireside, watching the twinkling ambers glow while I nibble on my favorite Lindt Dark Chocolate, I find my heart and my mind racing with so many different emotions.
There’s no denying that the Holiday season is an amazing time of year; candles flickering, ornaments sparkling, families coming together over a gorgeous meal in pure laughter and bliss. The world is reminded of all the beautiful, simple pleasures that many of us take for granted when we’re caught up in the hustle and bustle of our every day lives.
For me, and many others that have suffered through adversity and loss, this time of year is very bitter sweet; in each breath that I am so thankful for the unbelievable people in my life and the opportunity to chase my dreams, I still find myself longing for the moments and people I’ve unfortunately lost along the way in my journey.
The holidays have been forever changed for me after the loss of my brother in Ireland and my best friend in New York. Though my journey to America has been blessed with great opportunity, my heart is a bit heavy knowing I can’t spend this time of year with them, my parents, sister and her beautiful family. I wish I could watch my nieces and nephew grow up and more stunning each day, while also being there for my mom to take care of her as she grows older. There is something undoubtedly magical about the classic holiday experience with your siblings and closest relatives, but that’s not to say I’m not blessed! I am one lucky lady to be so loved by my wonderful husband, Richard, and of course our handsome Bailey!! Not to mention my amazing support system of friends! I really am fortunate to call them my second family.
As fun as this season is, I sometimes feel a lot of added pressure this time of year as well, as I’m sure many of you can relate to. I find myself sometimes smothered by other people’s expectations of me, and the constant pressure to adhere to everyone else's wishes. Though I am such a positive and selfless person, I still find it difficult sometimes to balance all of the external pressures, when inside I am dealing with my own personal hardships.
It’s been said that those who smile the most have felt the most pain, and as I sit here and reflect on all of my loss and all of my love, this quote seems to strike a nerve like never before. I’ve realized that It is so important to stay strong during moments of sadness and grief, and realize that although you may have been robbed precious time with someone you love, in the same token you were blessed with so many unforgettable moments with them. If you’re far away and can’t spend the holidays with your immediate family, try and live in the moment with the people around you and realize how lucky you are for the friends and loved ones you still have. And like me, if you sometimes find yourself drowning in other people’s expectations, take a step back, breathe and remember who you are and what you’re made of. Even in stressful times, you must remain positive and light-hearted and find alternative means to exert your frustrations; I do yoga, or anything to break a sweat! It’s such a rewarding way to release your stress. Plus, it works off all of the holiday sweets, LOL.
As the new year approaches, and I am facing this roller coaster of emotion, I always remember to count my blessings. In every moment I have suffered, I have gained such powerful perspective that not only makes me a stronger person but a more dimensional actress. If I can leave you with one piece of personal wisdom I’ve learned, it would be to turn any negative energy, or feeling of grief, loss and regret into fuel to be the best version of yourself in the coming year. The Holidays are an amazing time to reflect on who you are, what you’ve learned and where you are going. Remember to spread kindness and appreciation to those who have supported you and most importantly: eat, laugh and be merry!
All of our warmest holiday wishes this Holiday season from our family to yours!
Xo JamieLee