I wish you all a merry Christmas, happy holidays, and a happy new year! For those who know me, you know that I love you. For those who don’t know me, know that I love you too!
You may have read the tragic story about the 40-year-old entertainer, Twitch. His succumbing to depression reminds us to value the people around us and never assume all is well. Though this is dubbed the season to be jolly, many of us fall into depression for various reasons. It should be a time of celebration and merriment, but some are overwhelmed by memories of their lost loved ones.
If you’re feeling depressed, please don’t try to tackle the process alone—seek professional help (e.g., the Rutgers University Human Resources Wellness Support page is a great resource). In the meantime, know that you’re surrounded by people who wish you well, value you, smile when you enter the room, appreciate your work, value your opinion, want to talk to you, want to listen to you, think you’re funny, and love you just the way you are!
This season, and every time you remember, make sure to share positive thoughts with those blessed to be in your circles. Your smile may be the only smile a person may see for the day. Your gratitude goes much farther than you think and is of greater value than most monetary gifts (I’ll gladly take a GMC Hummer EV).
So happy holidays to you! I hope all is well and you enjoy your family (RUL, blood) and loved ones this season and recognize the value in their lives and yours.
Warmest regards,
Phil Wilson
Library Specialist I
Robert Wood Johnson Library
