You know how they say “there’s no place like home for the holidays?” There’s a certain warmth that we feel from being around our families and being able to catch up with friends who go to different schools. A lot of you are familiar with the routine of going to school for a few months then returning home. You understand the bittersweetness of this time of year! For many people, going home for the holidays is usually a pleasant, and much anticipated occasion. But maybe that isn’t the case for you. It’s easy to feel like you’re the only one who feels uneasy about going home for the holidays. But I promise you, that is not the case. Every single family has its problems, whether they’re big or small.

After months of living on your own and having a taste of freedom, it may be somewhat difficult to return to your parents’ rules. You’ve gotten used to doing whatever you want, whenever you want to. Your newfound independence has helped you figure out who you really are. Or perhaps it’s not necessarily the freedom from rules that you love about college, but maybe the freedom from family problems. The transition from school to home might be a rough one for many reasons. If you’re a commuter student, maybe you didn’t feel the freedom in the first place. But school is more like a safe place where you recharge and feel more like yourself.

Through it all, it’s important to remember that the Lord is with you, no matter what issues you’re dealing with.

Whether you can’t wait to head home, or you’re feeling a little anxious, remember that God is near you. Our God is a God of endurance. He wants you to draw closer to Him during times of suffering. And the holiday season is sometimes an area of solemness, which is okay! Don’t feel like you have to be cheery just because that’s what’s expected. Meet God during this time and reevaluate where you are with Him. Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.” Make sure you remember to be patient and kind to yourself during this transition time of going back to your family’s house again for the holidays. And show your parents the same kindness and understanding.

Happy Holidays, 51!