Reunion Online

This holiday season, Board Member Debbie Millman shares some extra cheer with a line of holiday cards she designed exclusively to support Joyful Heart. We spoke with Debbie about her inspiration for the cards, her connection to Joyful Heart, and what joy means to her.

What first drew you to Joyful Heart?

Many of us adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse and other traumas find ourselves with confused feelings as we’re confronted with holiday promises of joy, connection and good will, which may run contrary to our memories of our own childhoods.

This holiday season, give in more ways than one.

Many of us adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse and other traumas find ourselves with confused feelings as we’re confronted with holiday promises of joy, connection and good will, which may run contrary to our memories of our own childhoods.

After a day of giving thanks, Black Friday and Cyber Monday, #GivingTuesday calls on us to channel the spirit of joy, gratitude and generosity this holiday season into giving back.

I try to be grateful for the blessings in my life everyday but this time of year in the thanks and giving season it is our collective opportunity. And this year for the first time in many years, Thanksgiving Day and the first night of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, fall on the same day—an opportunity to appreciate and be grateful for what lets the light in.

Do you know a man struggling with relationships, work, school, depression, substance abuse? Are you going to see him over the upcoming holidays?

Or perhaps you are that man and will be visiting loved ones next week over Thanksgiving or Chanukah.

Lots of things can inspire a man to want to improve his life.  Disappointment over a failed relationship, a job or career setback, remorse about an act of violence or even the unexpected hollowness of a long-sought success can all prompt self examination. 

As survivors, many things often show up at holidays that can trigger us. So here is the simple message I want to share. Be careful and take care of yourself. Try to keep an ally—a friend or partner—who understands and will support you close at all times.