I love to see the joy on the faces of children who possess the Christmas “magic” as they anticipate the excitement of Santa dropping off gifts and eating the milk and cookies left on Christmas Eve. As I see it, that innocence is the epitome of what Christmas – – and all the holidays we enjoy this time of year – – is about.
I’m now an adult. An adult who is having a hard time finding his way during this holiday season. During this time of year, I can’t help but think of those who I loved who are no longer with us. I’m sure I’m not the only one who is experiencing the grief that the holiday season can bring. You are not alone.
I would encourage anyone who is feeling blue to keep your ancestors alive by making their favorite dish or even doing something as easy as wearing their favorite color. Try to stay as present as possible, creating fresh memories with those who are with us.
Now, let’s take a breath, flip the switch, and try to center our happiness! Enjoy these community events in and around Cleveland this week.
Holiday Sips & Treats
Cafe Indigo in partnership with Saint Luke’s Foundation will be hosting Holiday Sips & Treats on Saturday, Dec. 21, at Cafe Indigo, 13201 Shaker Square, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cafe is preparing for its grand opening, and this event will feature free hot drinks, pastries, bingo games and a complimentary stainless steel coffee mug to encourage visitors to return for the official opening. Devonta Dickey, communications and marketing officer for the Saint Luke’s Foundation, urges the community to come and enjoy the event and each other.
“The holiday season is about celebration, sharing joy, and coming together with family, friends, and neighbors in a spirit of generosity, gratitude and unity,” Dickey said. “We invite everyone to join us and share in the joy of this special time of year.”
For more information on Holiday Sips & Treats, contact Dickey at [email protected].
Live Nativity Scene
St. Aloysius/St. Agatha Church will be hosting a Live Nativity Scene on Thursday, Dec. 19, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. This program will feature the Holy Spirit Youth Club, Diocesan Youth Praise Dancers, St. Adalbert/OLBS altar servers and live animals, weather permitting. St. Aloysius/St. Agatha Church is located at 10932 St. Clair Ave. For more information, click here.
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Joy for Kids This Christmas
God’s Vision Foundation will be hosting Joy for Kids This Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 21, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. There will be plenty of things to do at this event, including coat and shoe giveaways as well as gifts for the kids, photos with Santa and refreshments. You must bring your ID, and kids MUST be present to receive gifts. Gifts for kids will be available while supplies last. This event will be held at the Stella Walsh Recreation Center, located at 7325 Broadway Ave. For more information, contact infogvfcle.org or click here.
Family-Friendly Game Night
Calvary Reformed Church will be hosting a Family-Friendly Game Night on Saturday, Dec. 21, from 6 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. There will be a large selection of board games to choose from, but feel free to bring your own and a few friends/family as well. Don’t worry if you aren’t familiar with all the games, someone will be in attendance to teach guests the rules and guide them as needed. Kids’ movies, snacks and fellowship will be provided. Calvary Reformed Church is located at 1918 W. 65th St. For more information, click here.
Pre-Hanukkah Cookie Baking and Shul Decorating
The Beth El-Heights Synagogue will be hosting Pre-Hanukkah Cooking Baking and Shul Decorating on Sunday, Dec. 22, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Families are welcome to design, roll and cut their own cookies or try to design a shul. The Beth El- Heights Synagogue is located at 3246 Desota Ave. For more information, click here.
For tips on reducing holiday stress, check out this Coping with the Holidays Booklet created by the Cuyahoga County ADAMHS Board. If you would like to speak one-on-one there is a 24 hour warm line available, where peer supporters will listen and talk through things. In crisis, call or text 988.