I Won't Be Home for the Holidays

When Perry Como sang that there's no place like home for the holidays, he echoed the sentiments of millions.

However, not every December can be a Christmas movie come true. We can't always make it to the family celebration. It might be because of school, it might be work; it could even be that your horribly obnoxious brother-in-law is going to be there and you can't stand the guy for 5 seconds, let alone a whole evening. Regardless, sometimes we can't come home for the holidays.

However, does that mean we can't still celebrate in or own way?

To start with, it's important to remember that the meaning of the season (besides the commercialized aspects) is peace on Earth and good will towards all men. Our society celebrates this concept, traditionally, by gathering together with loved ones and giving them gifts. So, who else do we love, other than family?

Friends, of course.

If you have a group of friends stuck in the same boat as you, why not gather together and have your own Christmas? There's no reason a friend can't show his appreciation to another friend. If not that, you could always go with a friend to their family's annual Christmas celebration.

The technologically-minded have a whole other avenue open. In the modern world, it's easier than ever to stay in touch with people from far away. Consider investing in a webcam. Though you may be miles away, the webcam would allow you to still feel like you were there. However, what if you truly are all alone in a strange town?

Think back to the meaning of this time of year. How can you show good will towards all men? The answer, here, is to think of those who have it even worse than you do. Go out and give a homeless person some extra cash. Spend some time with others who look lonely. There are always people looking for help, appreciation or just a little bit of company.

What's important here isn't that you follow any of the above guidelines. Instead, what you should keep in mind is that you'll only have a bad time if you let yourself. Always allow yourself to smile, no matter how grim things may look. If you make the effort, even the worst circumstances can be turned around and still result in a happy holiday season.