15 December

Somewhere out there, an employee walks past the office “Christmas Extravaganza” flyer and sighs. She’s not offended — just tired. She loves her own traditions, but they’re rarely seen, rarely mentioned. Every December, she debates whether to speak up or let it go, not wanting to seem difficult for asking that her holiday matter too.

Somewhere out there, an HR director is thrilled about the company’s holiday plans: a Secret Santa, a tree-lighting, a singalong. She’s trying to spread joy and build community — and it doesn’t cross her mind that her idea of “holiday spirit” might not feel inclusive to everyone.

Consider this:

The more ways we make room for joy, the more kinds of joy can belong.