Grieving Through The Holidays
In this post, I will be sharing how to help grieve families through the holidays.
Plan for Holidays and Special Events with Intentionality
Holidays and special events like birthdays and the anniversary of the death of a loved one are often days filled with memories and emotions. There are many ways families choose to remember their loved ones. One way to make these special days more manageable is by planning ahead as a family how you would like to remember and celebrate the day. Discussing plans beforehand as a family can help spread out the emotions surrounding the day.
As a family, including the children, discuss how you have celebrated these special events in the past. Are there traditions that you would like to continue? Would you like to make a new tradition? Allow time for everyone to have time to think about their desires and process their feelings. This discussion may take several days or weeks for everyone to process. Once everyone is on the same page, make a plan. Assign tasks so everyone is involved and no one has to carry the burden alone. Be respectful of where each family member is on their grief journey. Perhaps everyone will not want to actively participate, but would be willing to be present.
Some Ways to Acknowledge a Holiday or Special Event
Visit the cemetery.
Visit with family and friends and share stories about your loved one
Light a candle in honor of your loved one.
Engage in an activity your loved one enjoyed.
Have a special mass or worship service in honor of your loved one.
Take a trip.
Compile a book of family and friends favorite memory of your loved one.
Be gentle with yourself during this time. The holidays will be different this year, be intentional on how you would like to celebrate them while still honoring your loved one. Give space to allow each family member to grieve and feel the way they need to. Remember that grief is a journey, and it takes time to heal. Be kind to yourself.
