22 December

Somewhere out there, a manager is doing her best to make the holidays special for her team. She organizes a gift exchange, sends handwritten cards, and brings in homemade fudge. It feels good to give — especially in a year that’s felt so heavy.

Somewhere out there, an employee nods politely at the gesture, but it stings. He’s grateful — and also lonely. The season reminds him of everything that’s changed since last year, everything he can’t get back. He smiles anyway, unwilling to dampen anyone else’s light.

Consider this:

Generosity and grief often sit at the same table this time of year.