Party of one

Nothing says the holidays like a party.

The holidays can be tough times as it is—if you’re alone, or stressed, or sick, or melancholy—and for some, the parties alone are enough reason to hate the season.  Not me;  I love going to parties–although I don’t throw them often.

A few days ago, I did have a party.  Only this one was a little different.

For one thing, there was a really short guest list.  I did invite my husband — but he politely refused to attend.

So I had the party anyway, all by myself.  A pity party.

The occasion isn’t worth mentioning; or even important.  Like everyone, I have challenges in life, and sometimes life just feels….challenging.

I’ve had far worse challenges; as a survivor  I never forget how lucky I am—in so many ways.   Despite all that,  I still have these moments.  Maybe everyone does.

This wasn’t even one of my better pity parties.   I’ve had some that went on for months weeks days.

This party was short; and ended the same way they usually do–  when some uninvited guests show up.

In the middle of my party, I got an email from a friend— who is dealing with some very difficult life challenges.  And then I talked to another friend.  Same story, different challenges.

I thought about their challenges and tried to help.   Then my mind shifted to all the other people coping with challenges right now.  And suddenly I realized my party was over–once I got out of  my own head to think about someone else.

Thinking about others— a sure-fire way to crash a pity party.

Still, I wish I could totally avoid having them; they’re never any fun.  Although I have to say– at my pity parties, the chocolate food is always great.