24/12/2025
This Christmas...
You don't have to be full of joy,
All merry and all bright,
You don't have to force festive cheer,
If you don't feel alright.
No, you're not obligated,
To be jovial and jolly,
To string the lights and sing the songs,
Or deck the halls with holly.
Perhaps you're missing someone,
And perhaps they miss you too,
Perhaps you're feeling burdened,
By how much you have to do.
Perhaps the bleak mid winter,
Leaves you feeling rather cold,
Perhaps it's hard to drive
December's darkness from your soul.
Perhaps you'd rather hibernate,
Let Christmas pass you by
But remember; it's not long ‘til you
Can bid this year goodbye.
For now, don't paint a smile
Upon your teary, tired face,
Instead, find quiet moments,
Where this season gives you space.
And recognise that songs
And decorations cannot hide,
The flurry of emotions
Overwhelming you inside.
Yes, find those little moments,
Where the lights don't feel so bright,
Where you don't have to keep pretending,
Just to be polite.
Where you can breathe in peacefully,
Away from all the noise,
Away from expectation,
That you're full of festive joys.
‘Cause when the day is over,
And the lights are taken down,
When it’s another year,
Before next Christmas rolls around,
Yes, when the joy is fading
And the merriment has ceased,
You’ll be so very grateful for
Those pocketfuls of peace,
Becky Hemsley 2023
Stunning artwork by Ann Baratashvili from the book 'Lost Story'.
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R Butler and Sons are Sending love to all of those that are not full of 'Christmas cheer' this year. Thinking of you all who have lost someone dear to you this time of year, and sending you love and strength to get through the festive period.
Remember there is always someone out there willing to listen if you get low,
Call Samaritans free on 116 123
SHOUT offers confidential 24/7 crisis text support, text SHOUT to 85258
Crisis text helpline Text HOME to 741741
Child line for under 19s 0800 11 11
NHS - 111
