Taipei city (Photo credit: :: The 2th RoOm ::)
I’ve posted some negative things about Christmas before, and I can’t apologize.
It seems inevitable that each year when December rolls around I get hit with the Xmas blues earlier in the month. This year was no exception.
However, no matter what, as the event draws nearer I’m reminded by how many special people I have in my life. I’m reminded that we’re all just trying to have a good time, and that no one wants to spend the holidays alone.
It doesn’t feel like Christmas in Taipei. Sure, there are random blow up Santas hanging out in certain metro stations. Displays abound on certain streets and its easy to find a santa hat or two. I saw some candy canes for sale the other day. Incredible.
I’ve managed to hit a couple of nice Christmas parties this year, and was reminded all over again, as I am every year, that Christmas is about spreading the love and the happiness. It is not about being gloomy, or depressed, or grinch-like. Who needs that anyway?
Nevertheless, Christmas abroad and away from my family and friends can be a little sad.
However, instead of feeling sorry for myself, I’ve decided to band together some other Ex-pats and go out and enjoy the holidays.
So we’ll be off to dinner and good cheer later on this evening, and no doubt, tomorrow after work as well.
True, my home isn’t decorated for the holidays, but I’ve never been one to put in more effort than I can stand. And true, I’m not buying a ton of gifts for everyone, nor am I expecting to receive any, but we all know that receiving or giving gifts has never been what Christmas is all about.
Its about spending time with the people we care about. While I can’t be with ALL the people I care about, there are a great many here in Taipei that I do have in mind. Although I won’t get to spend time with all of them this year, I know I’ll be with people who are important to me. And we’ll have a good time, having fun, being on our own, and, most importantly, spending time together.
So I just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas this year, whether you’re religious. Whether you’re enjoying yourself. It is important to spend time with people you care about. No matter how lonely this time of year may be, there is always someone out there thinking of you, even if they can’t be there or they haven’t called, it doesn’t mean that you aren’t in someone’s thoughts.
If you’re lonely this Christmas, make an effort to reach out. Don’t wait for someone to reach out to you. I guarantee that you can make someone’s day or holidays just by taking the time to reach out.
Merry Christmas everyone, and happy holidays to all.
Yes, the holidays can be a challenging time if you are away from friends and family! I’m struggling with the idea of being here (Wyoming) and working the holidays. First time ever I’ve not been around either friends or family. Ugh. Good for you for gathering a group of ex-pats. While not the same as friends & family from home, it’s better than some alternatives.
I’m keeping my chin up by getting excited about my upcoming trip to Honduras – just bought my ticket today!
Honduras should be fun! And I can’t hate on hanging with friends. We’ll have a good time for sure. Don’t forget to wish someone in your new town a merry xmas today too!
That’s more like it! Merry Christmas, Mish! Thinking of you often and miss you tons! Love, Gabi
Miss you too. Hope you and Adi are having a good time in PL.
Merry Christmas to you! I have spent many a Christmas away from home. While I do not go in for all the religious trappings associated with it I do believe that it is supposed to be a time to celebrate, have good times and pass on a little kindness if possible. I hope you enjoy your holidays.
I’m well on my way. Thank you. I’m discovering a new sort of Xmas abroad.
I get the similar blue during new year’s eve. For some reason, for past few years, I get stuck working on projects far away from home during new year. It is not fun being alone during new year’s eve in a strange town. I have a feeling this year is not going to be any different. So I am already bracing for the new year’s eve blue.
Are you out of town now? I suggest finding the local party spot and going out anyway. You can always make new friends. It sucks to spend NYE alone.
Yes, I am working away from home. I will get some champagne and celebrate the new year even if I do not find a party spot.