If your Christmases are tainted by uncomfortable or traumatic events from past Christmases, it may be a difficult time of year. "This is especially the case for families with old and not easily forgotten family conflicts," Steven and Gene said. "While painful memories cannot be erased, dwelling on past grievances without resolution is not likely to be productive; it's far better to acknowledge the pain — after all, the kids and others already know that these are not easy times — than to try and make life in the moment better for all."