I also have pictures of my children on Santa’s knee, family gatherings at the table or by the beach and of course, rooms full of discarded wrapping paper. There was lots of laughter and smiles and fun.

But there were also times when I was alone at Christmas. When the shopping centre muzak or the shop window decorations were nothing but painful reminders of circumstances I was doing my best to survive.

Christmas is meant to be a joyous time but that just isn’t true for many, many more than you or I might think.

If you are being overwhelmed by Christmas, take a risk and tell someone. Any of my brother and sister ministers or priests will be happy to take your call, as will Lifeline (13 11 14), Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or the Kids Help Line (1800 55 1800).

The community of Yass Valley is no less impacted by the ups and downs of life than any other place but it is also one of the most generous communities I have ever lived in.

The Salvation Army and the Saint Vincent De Paul Society will be handing out many food hampers this year, in association with the Uniting church the Target Gift Box will provide toys to families in our local communities and there are many others working behind the scenes to make Christmas better for those who will find this Christmas hard.

So if you have the capacity within your budget this Christmas I encourage you to consider contributing to one of the many community groups who will be generously providing food, toys, time and transport for the many in our community who may be doing it tough.

May the peace of Jesus and the love of God be your companion this CHRISTmas!

ITALICS: Rev Ken Rampling, Anglican Parish of Yass Valley.