Create a Festive Atmosphere

Loneliness—it can creep up on us, even when we’re busy caring for our loved ones.

Haven’t we all felt the burden of isolation at one time or another? But we don’t have to stay in that lonely place. Sometimes even a minor change in our routine can lift our spirit and the spirit of our loved one. With just a little effort, ordinary days can become extraordinary.

Lighting a candle can brighten the gloomiest of days. The aroma of an apple pie or chocolate-chip cookies baking has a comforting effect. We might play some pleasant background music or pop a lighthearted comedy into the DVD player.

Lonely days are perfect for inviting friends or neighbors over for an impromptu visit. It’s fun to hear about the unusual experiences of our friends’ lives—invite them to share stories of their childhood, describe some of the funniest people they’ve met, or tell about their most embarrassing moments. Such get-togethers are often sprinkled with humor and surprises.

God knows that a joyful heart is good medicine, helping both us and our loved ones to feel better.