Tis the Season to Celebrate

It was May 19 th , 2020 when I found myself putting on my robe with my newly earned stripes
(three on each sleeve to be exact), my father’s Ph.D. graduation hood (an homage to my late
father’s profound respect for education), and my tam (something I had been waiting to wear for a
very long time!). My Zoom-inspired Doctor of Ministry graduation from Claremont School of
Theology would soon begin and there was nothing that was going to keep me from participating
or celebrating this long-awaited event – not even a global pandemic!

I have often been asked if I felt that my graduation was not as grand as I had hoped or planned,
or if the event itself was somehow a let-down after my years of hard work and dedication to my
project that would soon become a non-profit organization which would serve so many clergy.
The answer is simple – Life is not something to anticipate and its circumstances are not
something we deserve, rather life is something to embrace and experience. In short, my
graduation was not what I had once planned and, in all honesty, I have had mixed emotions about
the circumstances, but my graduation was one I fully embraced, experienced, and celebrated.
This time of year is often hailed as a season of celebration. From Mother’s Day to graduations,
the month is filled with opportunities to honor achievements, express gratitude, and come
together with loved ones. However, for some, this season can also bring about a mix of emotions,
ranging from joy to sadness, and everything in between.

It’s completely understandable if this season feels complicated for you – I know it can feel
complicated for me! Here are some suggestions that I have found helpful for finding your footing
during complicated times:

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions. Allow yourself to
   recognize and accept whatever you’re feeling without judgment.
2. Reach Out for Support: Don’t hesitate to lean on friends, family, or a therapist if you
   need someone to talk to. Sometimes just expressing your feelings can provide a sense of
   relief.
3. Create New Traditions: If the traditional celebrations feel too overwhelming or painful,
   consider creating new traditions that feel more meaningful to you. This could be as
   simple as spending time in nature, volunteering, or engaging in a favorite hobby.
4. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself during this time. Treat yourself with the
   same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend going through a similar
   situation.
5. Focus on Gratitude: While it’s okay to acknowledge the challenges, try to also focus on
   the things you are grateful for. This could be small moments of joy, supportive
   relationships, or personal accomplishments.
6. Set Boundaries: If certain events or activities feel too overwhelming, it’s okay to set
   boundaries and prioritize your well-being. You don’t have to attend every gathering or
   participate in every tradition if it doesn’t feel right for you.
7. Seek Meaning: Take some time to reflect on the deeper meaning behind these
   celebrations. For example, Mother’s Day can be a time to honor not only biological
   mothers, but also anyone who has played a nurturing role in your life.
8. Practice Self-Care: Make self-care a priority during this time. Engage in activities that
   nourish your mind, body, and spirit, whether it’s exercise, meditation, creative expression,
   or simply spending time doing things you enjoy.
   
   May is a season of celebration, but it’s also a time that can feel complicated for many of us. By
   acknowledging our feelings, reaching out for support, and finding ways to honor the season in a
   way that feels authentic to us, we can navigate complex seasons in our lives with grace and
   meaning. Remember that it’s okay to lean on others, to prioritize self-care, and to create new
   traditions that reflect who we are and what we value. Your well-being is what matters most!
   
   With awe and grace, Kelly