Experiencing grief and the holidays can be one of the most painful times of the year after losing a loved one. This is true whether your loss occurred by death, divorce, break up or a move across the country. For whatever reason the holidays are coming and your loved one is not here to share them with you.
It is disappointing and sometimes traumatic when you realize that family celebrations and traditions will never be the same again. Even if you carry on with traditions for the sake of other family members, there is a hole in your heart that aches for their presence.
We define grief as reaching out for someone who has always been there only to find out that when you need them one more time, they are not there.
Heartache and pain during the holidays often comes in waves intermingled with bittersweet memories at odd times, like when you realize that Mom is the only one who actually knows how to cook the turkey, or you wonder what she put in that special Christmas recipe and now you can't ask her.
Or it may be your spouse is missing and he or she is the one who took charge of getting the Christmas tree decorated.
Whoever you are longing for this holiday season, they hold a special place in your heart and your holiday traditions.
In the midst of of this Christmas grief, sometimes we get unexpected blessings. Maybe something brought you joy when you thought you wouldn't be able to smile. Perhaps you found creative way to honor your loved one. Did someone do something for you that encouraged you in your grief, and gave you hope?
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