Battle of the Bulge: A Christmas Truce…..
Some of us are familiar with historic Christmas truces. They show up in books and documentaries, and they tend to stop us in our tracks. But here is a smaller one that often gets forgotten-and it carries a quiet lesson about mental health.
The Battle of the Bulge lasted from December 1944 to January 1945. It was one of the coldest, bloodiest battles of World War II. Soldiers on both sides were exhausted, injured, hungry, and far from home. Christmas was not peaceful that year. It was loud, frightening, and uncertain.
On Christmas Eve, something unexpected happened. A small group of American and German soldiers settled into a temporary ceasefire. Instead of fighting, they shared a meal. For a brief moment, the war stopped.
During that time, they realized something important. They weren’t just enemies. They were young men with a lot in common. They were cold. They were tired. They were hurt. And they were missing their families on Christmas Eve. Each of them was fighting for man and country, but underneath the uniforms, they were just people trying to survive.
The next day, Christmas Day, they went their separate ways and continued fighting. The war did not end because of this moment. But that small truce still matters.
We don’t have many documented ceasefires like this in history. Wars are usually fought over beliefs, power, land, and fear. They are devastating not only to the people fighting them, but also to the civilians who happen to live nearby. The mental toll alone is something many veterans carry for the rest of their lives.
When we look back on moments like this, we often do so with awe. It feels almost impossible that kindness could exist in the middle of something so violent. But maybe that’s why it stands out. It reminds us that even in the worst situations, people still look for connection.
For those who may not believe in the “spirit of Christmas,” this story still gives some food for thought. Christmas, at its core, represents peace, giving, community, and the idea that we are all just people trying to get through this life the best we can.
That idea connects closely to mental health. When we are overwhelmed, stressed, or hurt, it’s easy to see others as the problem. We draw lines. We protect our pride. We dig in. But what if we paused, even briefly, and looked at the person across from us as another human being carrying their own weight?
For those of you in divided families due to differences-politics, beliefs, old arguments, or unspoken hurts-is there a Christmas truce you need to call this year? Just for one evening. Just long enough to sit under one roof, share a meal, and remember what you once had in common.
I like to call this taking the high road. It isn’t easy. Pride often gets in the way of being the bigger person. Sometimes it feels unfair. Sometimes it feels risky. But mental health isn’t just about setting boundaries; it’s also about choosing peace when it’s possible.
What would our world look like if more of us did that? If more of us chose understanding over winning? If more of us allowed ourselves a pause from conflict, even when we don’t fully agree?
That small Christmas Eve truce during the Battle of the Bulge didn’t change the war. But it changed the moment. And sometimes, changing the moment is enough to remind us who we are.
From our home to yours, I hope you have a very Merry Christmas.
Courtney Beebe is an Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Alaska
Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional therapy, medical advice, or diagnosis. Mind Body Connection, LLC does not assume any liability for the information discussed herein. We encourage you to seek the guidance of a qualified mental health professional or medical expert for personal concerns or specific guidance. Your well-being is important, and we empower you to make informed decisions regarding your health.
