Christmas: The Most Important Journey Is Community

Christmas is often associated with joy, warmth, and togetherness. But for many, it's also a time that can feel especially lonely. I believe we all benefit from reminding ourselves that Christmas is, above all, about connection and seeing one another.

When we think of Christmas, we often imagine glowing candles, the smell of cookies, laughter around the dinner table, and gifts under the tree. But reality isn't always like that. For many, Christmas is when the absence of family, friends, or community becomes more apparent than ever.

Research shows that loneliness can be particularly strong during the holidays. According to the Campaign to End Loneliness, older adults and those with mental health challenges are especially vulnerable to feeling alone at Christmas. And we know that loneliness affects both mental and physical health.

But I also believe that Christmas gives us an opportunity. It reminds us of what truly matters: connection, presence, and care.

How can we create more connection at Christmas?
💬 Reach out
A phone call or a message can mean the world to someone who might otherwise be sitting alone. It costs little, but warms a lot.

🎄 Extend an invitation
Have room at your table? Then you have room for one more. Maybe a neighbor, a friend, or someone you know doesn't have many people around them.

🌟 Create small traditions
Christmas isn't just about big parties. A walk to see holiday lights, a cup of mulled wine together, or a shared carol can create lasting memories.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Think community over perfection
Christmas doesn't become better because everything is perfect. It becomes better because we share it, just as we are.

💙 Allow space for quiet and conversation
Not everyone can handle large gatherings. Some need peace. In those cases, a small moment together, a chat or a shared meal, can mean more than anything else.

At Inkluderende Reiser (Inclusive Travel), I aim to build community all year round, but at Christmas, it becomes even clearer why this matters. We need each other, not just when we travel, but during the holidays too.

Perhaps the most important journey at Christmas isn't about going somewhere, it's about finding our way to one another.