If you’re not inherently sync with the Christmas crush, you might actually be exactly where your soul needs to be.

Christmas has come and gone and the ceaseless conveyor belt of time carries us on into a brave new year, a year that one can only pray will include an impeachment hearing.

“I don’t know what’s wrong with me, but I’m just not that into Christmas this year. I don’t want a tree, I’m not interested in buying presents; I just want to curl up with a book and be quiet.” My client looked at me half expectantly, half sheepishly.

Here’s a holiday pop quiz: Do you remember what you received for Christmas last year? Do you remember what you gave? Me either.

If you are in the midst of grief, the holidays can be an especially tough time. Mourning a loss during this season of joyful celebration is an exercise in endurance and suffering.