The holiday season is a time to celebrate the joys of family and tradition, as well as deeper spiritual mysteries.
It can be a mixed blessing, however, even a time of despair, for some people.
As individuals and families grow older, holiday traditions can fail to keep pace.
The death of a family member during the year can be poignantly felt all over again at Christmas time.
It may be difficult to let go of a loved one and work through the grief of their passage.
Flower essences such Bleeding Heart and Sturt Desert Pea can help release the pain of these separations, while Forget-Me-Not is useful in keeping their memory alive in a healthy manner.
While there are numerous essences appropriate to depression, several are worth highlighting.
Gorse is for despair and resignation, a sense of deep hopelessness.
It moves one towards a feeling of faith and optimism.
Sweet Chestnut is for even darker states of mind, when it feels like one has reached the end of their endurance.
Sunshine Wattle also produces a sunny outlook when things look bleak.
If the person is suicidal, Cherry Plum or Waratah can get them through the crisis without harming themselves or others.
Sometimes the inner pain is less profound, a kind of alienation from all the celebration, an inability to get into the holiday spirit.
Tall Yellow Top or Sweet Pea may give you a sense of belonging, again.
And if you keep a smiling face while suffering inside, Agrimony can bring your inner and outer worlds into better harmony.
No family on earth is perfect, but some definitely produce more anger and resentment than love and acceptance.
Such a setting is hardly the place to relax and feel at home.
Many flower essences address these harsh emotions and other petty issues, but Dagger Hakea tops the list.
It resolves the tangled web of resentments towards loved ones, allowing forgiveness and concern to take its place.
Impatiens, Fuchsia and Scarlet Monkeyflower are also recommendes for anger.
Calendula and Snapdragon can soften those who dish out their abuse verbally, while Star Tulip makes you a better listener.
Willow is for resentments from feeling unfairly treated, a kind of "poor me" syndrome.
Unloving relationships between parents and children can poison the family for life.
Consider Baby Blue Eyes or Red Helmet Orchid when dad is involved, Mariposa Lily or Dog Rose (from the Bush remedies) for mom.
And of course, Holly for everyone!