How can one make the Advent season and Christmas a joy-filled meaningful celebration when one is alone and lonely?

How can one make the Advent season and Christmas a joy-filled meaningful celebration when one is alone and lonely?

I like the answer which Barbara Baumgardner, gives us in her story, “The Aroma of Christmas.”

The first Christmas after my husband died was filled with forced laughter, fake smiles and trying desperately to have a good time.

Twelve months later healing was evidenced by the excitement welling up with me as I prepared for a grand and glorious holiday. The kids and grandchildren were coming to spend Christmas at my home.