A Christmas Like No Other

After being slaughtered by Atalanta three days before Christmas last year, no Milanista could have believed that this Christmas, we would be where we are now. However, no one in the world could have dreamed last Christmas that this year, we would be socially distancing, wearing masks, and staying away from family to show them that we love them, either. All the way around, this Christmas is a Christmas like no other.

One goal up, two opponents down. Merry Christmas.

So many people are alone this year, missing holiday traditions, families, traveling, and social gatherings. Many more have lost loved ones, income, jobs, and more. Substance abuse, depression, and suicide are at all-time highs as people struggle to cope with a global pandemic that is even worse than the past ten years at Milan.

This is where Milan fans can draw from the resilience and fortitude that we have built up over these years, as well as the hope and joy our team has given us during this, the most difficult of years. If you are feeling alone, lonely, depressed, or more, reach out for strength from fellow fans. 

You are never alone now that Zlatan is back.

For example, I can be reached via email by using the contact button here on this blog, or via my DMs on Twitter @milanobsession. My DMs are always open for fellow Milan and football fans, and I am happy to chat as a friend, or even point you to some help if that is where you are at. I have lost friends and family to depression and suicide, and I don't want to see anyone else go down that road. Especially not ahead of the possibility of our first Scudetto in ten years. 

Beating Juventus 4-2 was literally Christmas in July.

Other things that you can do if you are feeling alone or lonely this year include:

• re-watching Milan games. For example, this one will warm your soul and bring you joy. We have seven Champions League titles, watching all of those finals will fill your day and fill your heart at the same time.

• reach out to someone else. If you are lonely, someone else you know is, too. Be the one to make the connection by messaging, emailing, calling, or videochatting with someone who maybe needs you as much as you need them.

• donate to charity. If you have money you would have spent on traveling or festivities, donate it to a charity of your choice. There are so many amazing charities out there, including Fondazione Milan, who are making a difference during this difficult time. You will feel better for it, I promise.

• find some good. Don't watch the traditional news, find people who are doing good. Like this feel good story from Milan this week. You control what goes into your mind and what influences your mood.

The past is our future. Enjoy.

• do some good. Do something nice (socially distanced) for a neighbor, like shoveling snow, walking a dog, or just calling them to chat. It's not too late, soup kitchens and food banks are always looking for help, put your mask and gloves on and go do some good. 

• practice self-care. Do something today for you. A hobby, interest, or something that fuels your soul and makes you happy. For example, this blog and the podcast are my self-care, because Milan is my passion. Try a new recipe, read a book you've been putting off, do something that makes you happy. Now. Today. Self-care is simply taking care of your soul, daily little things to bring you joy and stave off mental health conditions like depression.

• ask for help. If you are thinking of taking your life, STOP. In the U.S., you can call 1-800-273 TALK (8255.) Reach out to a friend or family member, go to a hospital, or reach out to me. There is no VAR for suicide. If you think you don't matter, you are wrong. First of all, every Milan fan in the world matters to me. By virtue of having chosen this club, you have made your life permanently worth living. I care about you, and I want you here with all of us at the end of this season, because we are absolutely qualifying for Champions League and maybe winning the Scudetto. Please stay with us. Stay with me.

Let's give the finger to Inter again...together.

This year is like no other, and this Christmas is like no other. But you alone have control over how it goes for you. Even if you are spending it alone, you can make it joyful. If that is difficult for you, or you are struggling in any way, please reach out for help, or find joy in helping others. Milan have given us so many reasons to be happy this year. Let's stick together to watch them rise again. You can make this Christmas a Christmas like no other.

This post inspired by the team of my heart, AC Milan

Merry Christmas!