“Grief is like the ocean; it comes on waves ebbing and flowing. Sometimes the water is calm, and sometimes it is overwhelming. All we can do is learn to swim.”
–Vicki Harrison
The holiday season is often viewed as a wonderful time of the year, filled with much joy and happiness. It is generally marked with people reflecting on their year and celebrating with family and friends. However, when faced with the recent loss of a loved one, the holidays can be very challenging and stressful. My experience has been no different.
The first holiday on your own is often, but not always the toughest to get through. For me, it brought me face-to-face with the cold and stark reality that my life had changed and would never be the same. I felt a deep sadness and emotional void from this tremendous personal loss but I never looked back or lost a sense of hope for the future.
Well, here are a few tips that helped me handle the holidays with a brave face.
First off, it is ok to acknowledge your sadness over the loss of a loved one with family and friends. Just try not to let this dominate your conversations with others. In my case, I tried to focus on the joy and happiness others were experiencing as a distraction and mood changer.
Next, some of us find comfort in being alone, while others enjoy the social interaction with friends and family. For me, I found both comfort and strength from participating in the family activities of my friends. They made me feel welcome and included in the holidays. We are all different and the important part is to let the healing process take its natural course.
I also needed to give myself some time to rest, as this process can be physically and mentally exhausting. During gatherings with family and friends, I would find myself feeling overwhelmed and unprepared for connections. Over time, I learned that it was ok for me to take some time to care for myself. But, like everything during this period, it’s been a process.
Adjusting some of my holiday traditions has also proved to be helpful. In time, I would even create some new ones. Instead of asking myself “How will I get through this”, over time my mantra became “I will get through this.”
Writing has always been a helpful activity for me, and has allowed me to clarify my feelings and ideas. I hope that sharing this helps you find your own way to cope with loss and grief you may be experiencing this holiday.