Holiday time is here! For some of us, we have happy memories from childhood and look forward to these festive times. And yet, for others the holidays bring back sad memories from our youth. Instead of excitement, we may feel anxiety or depression at this time of year. I've been guilty of living with the "perfect family" fantasy where everyone is warm and fuzzy during the holidays and all is cheerful and well. In reality, my family of origin was highly dysfunctional and the holidays often ended up with drunken rages and me feeling very small and invisible. I've always secretly been jealous of happy families at the holidays. Healing comes when I can accept that I have received some negative programming from childhood and I need to make a conscious effort to be positive. One of the ways I do this is to extend a hand to people in need at the holidays. Helping others always brings me back into the present time. If you are finding the holidays challenging, try to remember that you may be reacting to feelings originating from a much younger age. Find a way to do something nurturing for your inner child this year, such as going for a walk with a friend, getting a massage or watching some funny videos while eating popcorn. Remember that this too will pass and lighten up. It's the season of light!