As we approach the holiday season, it is assumed that it is to be a wonderful time, a happy time, but for some it is dreaded because they are missing those they have lost. It is hard to go to a gathering and feel disconnected from others as you watch smiles and pairings. One is not alone at these gatherings, but it is often not the same as those we are watching. During this holiday season and as it approaches, remember those who have lost and provide them with support. You won't fill their void, but you will provide comfort and love.
Often when I am comforting someone else through their grief, I am feeling my own. I remember a 12 month period where I lost five people who were close to me. Each loss caused me to relive the pain of the last loss. I was grateful to friends who listened to me, multiple times, about how much I missed the ones who left. Eventually, I found a way to continue to enjoy my life. Or maybe I just got tired of feeling miserable and decided I was going to find ways to enjoy the beautiful things in my life.