Merry Christmas or Not!

The holiday season often arrives with an avalanche of emotions, especially for those of us carrying the weight of loss. The twinkling lights and cheerful gatherings can sometimes feel more like a stark reminder of absence than a celebration of presence. Grief doesn't take a holiday; it's there, woven into every ornament, song, and empty chair at the table.

It's important to acknowledge that it's okay to take time away from the hustle and bustle. If the thought of holiday cheer feels more like a burden than a joy, give yourself permission to step back. There’s no rule book saying you must engage in every tradition, attend every gathering, or wear a smile when your heart feels heavy. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is to allow yourself the space to grieve, to heal, or even to escape the expectations of the season.

This might mean creating new traditions that honor your loved ones in ways that feel right for you. Maybe it's lighting a candle for them each evening, visiting a place that was special to them, or simply sitting in silence with their memory. Or perhaps, it's okay if you need to "run away" for a little — to go where the air feels lighter, where memories don't press so hard against your chest, where you can work on yourself without the constant reminders of what's missing.

Remembering our loved ones doesn't have to be confined to the traditional ways. It can be in the quiet moments, in the stories you share with others, or in the private tears that fall when you're alone. Grief is personal, and so is healing. There's beauty in the act of remembering, in carrying forward the love and lessons of those we've lost, even as we navigate our path through grief.

So, if this holiday season feels like walking through a storm, know that it's okay to find shelter in your way. It's okay to miss them loudly, quietly, or not at all if that's what you need. Your journey through grief is yours alone, and it's one that deserves respect, patience, and love — from you to you, and from the memories of those who've shaped your heart.

Take this time to heal, to remember, and to do what feels right for your soul. Our loved ones would want nothing less than for us to find our way back to joy, on our terms, in our time. Here's to healing, to honouring, and to finding light in the darkness of loss this holiday season.

Merry Christmas or Not

By: Laura Louizos 

Dec 21, 2024

#GriefDuringHolidays #HealingJourney #Remembering #SelfCare #HonoringMemory