The Grieving Journey On the Path to Grieving

As we go through the process of grief over the loss of a loved one, time inevitably moves forward. As various holidays approach, the times that were once celebrations become painful reminders that there will be one less person celebrating. However, by taking an active step to remember the loved one who has died in your festivities, you can help alleviate some of the pain and create new traditions. Remember not to try to do too much right away. Go at your own pace and celebrate holidays in a way that works for you and your family. Here are some suggestions of ways to include your loved one in holiday celebrations.

1.) Set an extra place at the table.
Following a loss, many people begin a new tradition of setting an empty place at the table. Too often people say nothing about someone who has recently died because they don’t want to upset anyone. Setting an extra place at the table is a reminder that things are different, and it also communicates a willingness to talk about it, rather than ignoring it. Use the extra place at the table as a way of talking about the person who has died and sharing happy memories about them. You can also make your loved one’s favorite dish or offer a toast or prayer in their honor.

2.) Include photos of your loved one as you decorate.
Decorating for the holidays becomes so much harder when you have experienced a loss. It can be difficult to make things look festive when your heart is still mourning. However, rather than ignoring the approaching holidays and keeping the decorations packed away, come up with some creative new ways to include photos and other things that remind you of your loved one in your decorations. Get creative making new ornaments, or dig up photos from holidays past to fill your house. Remember the good times as you try to get through this difficult one.

3.) Do a charitable activity in their honor.
Holidays offer countless opportunities for charitable activities. Find a worthy cause and donate your time to it in honor of the person you have lost. You can also use the money that would normally be spent on a gift for that person as a charitable donation to their favorite cause. Keeping busy with activities that help others in the name of your loved one is a wonderful way to make it through a difficult holiday.