The Christmas season brings many feelings and memories, and while many are celebrating, many others are not. Does this season bring difficult memories for you? Perhaps your heart returns to a time when a loved one was dying or an accident changed your Christmas tradition forever. Just because it's, “the most wonderful time of the year” doesn't mean it's the best time for everyone. Yet, at a time when so many seem so joyous is it OK to recognize feelings that just don't fit with the season? Feelings of loss and despair, feelings of anger and frustration, feelings of anxiety and failure.

I believe it is not only OK, but necessary to give voice to all those other feelings we might have. In a time of frustrated finances and unreal expectations, it's important to know that you are not alone. At an anniversary of a loved one's death or other traumatic experience, it's imperative to have someplace to come and perhaps begin to heal.

That is why the Carson Valley United Methodist Church is opening its doors to you. Please consider joining us at 7 p.m. Thursday for a time of sharing and remembering. Together we can make this holiday season one that is less depressing and more manageable. No judgments. No expectations. No gimmicks. Just people gathering for the purpose of shared forgiveness, healing and the blessing of God's grace.

Carson Valley United Methodist Church is located at 1375 Centerville Lane, Gardnerville. For more information call 782-4600.