An open letter to everyone navigating this holiday season

Hey You,

As the holiday lights twinkle in shop windows and Mariah Carey starts playing everywhere, I’ve been thinking about how different this time of year feels for everyone. Maybe you’re counting down the days, or maybe you’re just trying to get through them. Either way, this letter is for you.

To those spending the holidays alone

I see you.

Whether it’s by choice or circumstance, being alone during the holidays can be tough. Between the endless stream of holiday movies and glittery ads, it’s easy to feel like you’re missing out. But YOU get to decide what this time means for you.

Maybe it’s ordering takeout, wearing your comfiest pajamas, and watching your favourite shows. Maybe it’s taking a long walk, journaling, or just treating it like any other day. That’s enough.

And if you’re craving a bit of connection, there’s space for you out there. Check out local events, say yes to a friend’s invite, or volunteer somewhere where your presence could make someone else feel less alone.

To those away from family

I know how hard this can be.

I moved to Canada, by myself, some Christmas ago. Everyone else seemed to be heading home, while I stayed behind, trying to piece together something that still felt meaningful.

If this is you, call your family. If you can’t be together in person, find a little way to feel close—maybe cook something that reminds you of home, listen to a song that makes you smile, or start a new tradition that’s all your own.

To those creating chosen families

As an immigrant, I’ve often felt like I’m in between places—not fully rooted anywhere. For a while, that made me feel like I didn’t belong. But over time, I’ve realized how powerful it is to build your own family with people who make you feel safe.

If you’re finding yourself in that space, lean into it. Invite friends over for a simple dinner, trade stories, or just show up for each other in small, meaningful ways. The love and support you build with your chosen family is just as real and just as important as anything you’re born into.

To everyone feeling the weight of expectations

The holidays can feel like a whirlwind of “shoulds.” You should feel happy. You should give the perfect gifts. You should have a Hallmark moment. But there is no one-size-fits-all way to celebrate. If you’re tired, let it be simple. If you’re overwhelmed, let go of the pressure. If you’re not feeling festive, that’s okay, too.

The holidays don’t have to look a certain way to matter. What you’re feeling right now? That’s valid.

The end of the year can feel like a rush to tie everything up, but I want to remind you to slow down. Take a moment to look back—not just at the big milestones, but at the small wins, the quiet moments, and the hard days you got through. Those matter, too.

And if this year hasn’t been what you hoped for, that’s okay. Surviving it is an accomplishment in itself. Be kind to yourself. Rest. Breathe. The new year doesn’t need to be a total reinvention—it’s just another chance to take things one day at a time.

Wherever you are and however you’re feeling, I hope you find moments of comfort, connection, and peace. You’ve made it this far, and that’s worth celebrating.

With love,

Vanessa