Grief and Holidays

Quote from a Hallmark movie:  "Death leaves a heartache no one can heal.  Love leaves a memory no one can steal."

Holidays can be especially difficult for those who have recently experienced the death of a loved one, friend, neighbor, church member or even someone who we needed to make peace with.  Holidays bring memories of the past that were shared with special people. It is sad to think about going through the holidays without that person or persons or a special animal.  There is no special way to take away the pain except to go through it.  Most people feel that the time spent with this person was worth the agony of losing them.  It is a big price to pay for loving others but it does remind us that we are alive and we still have impact on the lives of others!

Cry if you need to cry.  Then pick up the pieces of your life and begin again, one step at a time.

Reach out to others who are hurting also and share your grief until you can begin sharing the fun and laughter you enjoyed with the person who died as you explore the memories of happy times.

Plan new ways to enjoy the holidays that are an expression of you and the loved ones and friends who are still with you. Create a new normal for the holidays without the physical presence of the person who died, but with their spirit and memory.  There are no right or wrong ways to handle grief as long as you keep yourself and others safe and peaceful.

Find a way to give to others.  We are all hurting from something.  We are all also capable of enjoying life again and sharing our blessings with others.   I wish all of you happy holidays and peace.