Dr. David Tribble

Last weekend, my wife and I put up the Christmas tree. We didn’t do it last year, feeling stretched between old and new lives and having a one-year-old Great Dane pup in the house. Besides, it is just the two of us now. But, now that it is up, I am glad we did it. The tree is decked with ornaments that are mementos of numerous events over the years, that are family heirlooms, that are symbols of the season, and I get joy from just sitting in the room with it and looking at it.

On many levels, this has not been a great year for joy. Money is tight for almost everybody, and for those families whose loved one died with us this year, there is an empty place at the table or around the tree. It is for just that reason that these are the best times to overcome the inertia and put up the tree, decorate the house, and immerse ourselves in the promise of the season. If we allow it to do so, it can help us heal a little. We can find peace and joy in the symbols and rituals of the season.

Have a joyous holiday, everyone!

Dr. David Tribble is Alive Hospice’s chief medical officer.