Already. As we all busy ourselves for the Christmas season, I have actually started to not look forward to the season. I will celebrate its religious meanings and I will give thanks. I won’t be spending Christmas with the whole family and I really miss that and I smile when I think of the past Christmases with them but it’s quickly replaced by knowing we won’t be together. Christmas make you remember that family is scattered all over the world so you can’t be with them all, but thank goodness for Skype, WhatsApp and other free viewing services.

So instead, I will use December to cherish the people around me. To be excited when I talk to my grandchildren about their Christmas wishes and preparations, to remind my children of their favourite Christmas pastimes. To make my parents laugh.

When I sit and reflect with my husband Olivier after calling our families, I know I will be grateful. I also know I will be thinking of people who are spending Christmas alone and those who are sad. I will make it a priority to volunteer where I can and to respond to those who reach out to me.

I will also play my favourite Christmas songs…I hesitated in downloading a really good Christmas album because it made me sad hearing the songs, but you know, facing fears does work. I will download a Christmas mix, listen, sing, think of happy memories, and I will thank Him for keeping my nearest and dearest with me at this time.

I wish you all a Merry, happy, peaceful and safe Christmas.