How to keep the Spirit of Your Loved Ones Close During the Holidays
Holidays are a time when the presence of your loved ones that have passed on can be more strongly felt. Experiencing holiday traditions, big or small, without someone you have lost with you can amplify your grief, but there are ways that you are able to remember and be close with those you’ve lost while still celebrating.
During this time if you start feeling overwhelmed with grief or loneliness, take a pause and making a living reminder of your loved one will allow you to have them close while still being present in your holiday traditions.
Treasure A Memento
Think of a tangible object that has special meaning between you and your loved one. It could be a photo, a special ornament, a piece of jewelry, or an old card or letter. It doesn’t have to be anything big or fancy, just something that is special to you both that you can keep near you that brings you comfort.
Make A Craft
Making something that can remind you of your loved ones or that would honour them is a creative and productive way that you can remember them. You can make an ornament or decorations with something of theirs, or make a scrapbook of some of your favourite memories.
Write A Letter
Writing a letter can be a cathartic way to communicate with the ones that you miss. You can write an update of what has been happening in your life, share a favourite memory that you have with them, or just start writing and see where that takes you!
Visit Memorable Places
A lot of holiday traditions involve gathering in special places with loved ones, and that can be difficult when you’ve lost someone, but visiting these places can bring a lot of comfort during this time. Take a drive through their favourite neighbourhood to look at the Christmas lights, go to their favourite show, or have a meal at their favourite restaurant.
Help With Their Projects
There are many ways that you can make a living reminder of your loved ones, not just for you. If you are feeling the absence of someone during this season, then it is likely those around you are too. Helping with some of the special things that is no longer here would normally help with can bring comfort to you and the others that miss them too. Maybe you can help shovel a driveway, put-up decorations, or maybe you can finish off that project that had been on their list that they couldn’t get it.
Everyone grieves and celebrates the loss of life differently, and there is no right or wrong way to honour those that you love. What is important is to remember that you are not alone in your grief and that the Spirit of your loved ones is here to guide and support you through your grief.
If you are looking to give the gift of connection this holiday season, tickets are available for “An Evening with Sherry Gallant” on April 2nd and 9th, 2022 in Barrie. Purchase your tickets here before they sell out!