Everyone carries their own hidden burdens, whether at home or at work and everywhere else.

During the celebrations and after Mass, all I saw was joy; people hugging, greeting each other, and heading off to second rounds of parties.

Social media and writing platforms have two completely different atmospheres. Social media is filtered and curated, showing only the highlights.

But in deeper writing, I see the truth: even though I feel isolated, I am not alone in my struggle. There are so many others suffering in silence.

The story of the Little Match Girl is especially striking because the cold darkness outside versus the warmth of a celebration you aren't part of is so obvious.

But honestly, even if we are invited, it may be even worse being inside depending on who we are with.

To me, this feeling isn’t limited to one season, but having Christmas, the New Year, and Lunar New Year so close together is exhausting.

It feels like a neverendingly cycle of 'jollity' being rubbed into my wounds.

People ask why I don’t join them, but what for?

Celebrations are meant to be shared with those who truly care for us. Why should I join a party hosted by people who only wish me no good?