'Tis the season -- but some may not be 'jolly'

  • Published
  • By Maj. Ronald Johnson
  • 71st Medical Group
Vance Air Force Base, Okla. --  As the song goes, this is the time of year to be "jolly" and to enjoy being with family and friends.
It is only natural that our thoughts and feelings are drawn to those we love.
It is a wonderful time of year, where people step out of themselves and try to do more for others. This usually creates a positive atmosphere where people feel wanted and needed and get along better with each other than at other times throughout the year.
Sometimes, however, this also becomes a time where stress and strain builds up. There is often not enough time and money to do all the things people want and need to do, and they give to others at the expense of their own well being. In addition, people can become acutely aware of already existing difficulties at home, work or school and lament that things have not improved during the holidays.
Thankfully, there are several places to reach out to for some extra "cheer" during the holiday season. There are warm and caring individuals at the chapel who are always willing to listen and help. At the life skills support center, individuals can get help with any number of personal or family difficulties. Also, the family support center has programs to help with financial concerns and stresses related to deployments or moving.
Any of these base support agencies are more than willing to assist. In addition, all of these agencies belong to the base Integrated Delivery System, which means if they cannot assist with a particular problem, they can quickly connect individuals to someone who can. So if a person finds him or herself in need during or after this holiday season, or if a person knows someone who would benefit from some extra help, please don't hesitate to contact any of the agencies listed above. The chapel can be reached at 7211, life skills at 7419 and the family support center at 6330.
In this manner we can take care of ourselves and those around us and have a happy holiday and a prosperous coming new year.