12/15/2025
Sharing Life, The Holidays and Grieving
Losing a loved one and coping with this loss is often difficult, especially in the first year following their passing. Traditions continue but are different. The absence of a loved has an impact on everyone who shared a close relationship with them.
So what do surviving loved ones need to consider?
It begins with setting realistic expectations for the season and knowing personal limits. Those who grieve are delicate and need time to heal. Committing to social events brings interactions, which is a positive benefit of sharing the season. However, the key is to not to accept an invite just because… but rather to accept because you recognize that attending the event will be enjoyable.
Know that the holidays will bring both good and not so good emotions to the forefront. This is normal. Remember the holiday season, is not simply one day that needs to be navigated, but rather weeks. Showing emotions is ok, regardless if it’s happiness or sadness. Those who love and care about you will understand.
Choose a pace which fits your emotional and physical health. Don’t overcommit. And if you are attending a function and become uncomfortable, have a plan to be able to cope with these feelings. Perhaps stepping away to a more quite environment is better than feeling uncomfortable and enduring an event just for the sake of it.
If you feel you are unable to cope, reach out to those who can help, family and friends, and professionals if needed.
Remember to allow yourself to be happy with the little joys that the holiday season brings, the special moments that touch your heart and the traditions that unite you and your family and friends. Little comforts help us heal.
© Daley Family Funeral Home/CFHC Online