Trying to figure out how to see all of the family members you want to see can be challenging during the holidays, especially if everyone doesn’t live close together. It can feel sometimes like you are being pulled apart, being forced to choose someone over another person. In my case, my visits will have to be spread out over several days. This means I will miss spending the actual holiday with someone.
Traveling over the holidays can be time consuming and stress inducing. Sometimes the trouble getting to my destination may temporarily spoils my mood. There’s pain associated with long drives for me, concern I may not get to take my medication on time which will result in me not feeling great. Then, there’s some worry that I will overdo it when I’m out and the next day will be physically unpleasant. But, I get that it’s critical that I shake off my discomfort since my time with others is often limited.
Instead of looking at travel as a logistical nightmare this year, I’m making my peace with it. After all, it’s an indication that despite all the family that I’ve lost, I have some left who are willing to open their hearts and homes to me. I think it’s better to be seen than missed so whenever I get there, it will be fine.