“It’s the most wonderful time of the year”—for most. But for many singles, the holiday season can feel different. Scrolling through social media, flooded with matching pajama sets and picture-perfect family gatherings, is a constant reminder of what they don’t have. Even if we understand that our relationship status doesn’t define us, the holidays can amplify feelings of loneliness, grief, or disappointment.

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For some, these emotions snowball into a sad and overwhelming stretch of weeks. If that’s where you find yourself, know you’re not alone. Millions of singles navigate these feelings during this season. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 117.6 million Americans—46.4% of U.S. adults—are unmarried; this includes those who are divorced, widowed, or have never married.

Activities like journaling can also help. Write down your emotions, prayers, and hopes for the future. Invite God into that space and allow Him to reveal His purposes for you.

Remember the True Meaning of Advent

Amid the busyness and commercialism, let’s not forget what the holiday season truly represents. Advent invites us to reflect on the birth of Jesus—the ultimate gift of hope and redemption. Because of His birth, we have access to God and the promise of eternal life.

The Advent season is a time to reflect on the gift of grace through Jesus’ birth; let it fill you with gratitude and peace.

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Closing Thoughts

Being honest with yourself and God about how you feel this holiday season is okay. Acknowledge the hard emotions, but don’t let them define you. Take steps to shift your perspective, create new memories, and embrace the true meaning of this season.

You may not be able to change your relationship status right now, but you can change how you approach this time. Reflect on who God says you are, and hold on to hope for what’s to come. With intentionality and faith, this holiday season can become one of growth, gratitude, and unexpected joy.

 

Sade Solomon is a NYC-based social media personality and multi-hyphenate creator who boldly and fashionably ignites authentic and candid conversations on topics surrounding intercourse, singleness, and abstinence. After embarking on her journey of abstinence in 2013, Sade began openly sharing her life-changing commitment on various online platforms while enlightening and inspiring many through her journey. In her book, Ready, Set, Wait, Sade peels back the layers of truth about navigating singleness and abstinence as a single Christian woman. Her work and commentary have been featured by Good Morning America, Harper’s Bazaar, Essence, Black Love, and XO Necole.

 

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