Home for the Holidays

Last time I wrote to you, I was sitting in a hospital cafeteria in Hong Kong, running on adrenaline and coffee.

Today? I’m writing from 35,000 feet in the air. My son and I are flying home for the holidays!

You know what I realized somewhere over the Pacific Ocean, watching my son finally sleep peacefully? We’re not built to do hard things alone.

Coming Home

When I finally walked through my front door, my husband just wrapped his arms around me and whispered, “I’m so glad you’re home.”

That moment—standing in our entryway, feeling his arms around me—that’s when it all hit me. For six weeks, I’d been navigating a foreign healthcare system. But I wasn’t doing it alone. My phone had lit up constantly—relatives, friends, clients checking in. I felt held.

Why Your Relationships Actually Matter

The Harvard Study of Adult Development—one of the longest studies on human happiness spanning over 85 years—found one clear message: Good relationships keep us happier and healthier. Period.

It wasn’t about how many friends you had or whether you were married. It was about the quality of your close relationships.

You don’t need a massive friend group or a perfect family. What matters is whether you have people who show up when things fall apart.

The Real Present This Season

The most important thing we can give each other this Christmas is our presence. Not presents. But our presence.

1. Invite the lonely ones in.

Someone you know doesn’t have family nearby? Extend the invitation.

2. Remember those who are grieving.

A simple “Thinking of you” can mean everything.

3. Tell people what they mean to you.

Not in a card. Not someday. Right now.

Just show up. Be present. Let yourself be held by the people who love you and hold them in return. Because at the end of the day—at the end of our lives—that’s all that matters.

We’re wired for connection and belonging. It’s not weakness to need people. It’s the most human thing about us.

I wish you all a happy holiday and Merry Christmas!