Holiday Grief Series | Ways To Honor Those We've Lost

What did you think of this episode?

In Episode 2 of my holiday grief series, I explore the tender journey of honoring lost loved ones during the festive season—a time that often brings a mix of joy and sorrow. As your host, I want to assure you that feeling these emotions is completely normal. Reflecting on my own experiences, I've learned that traditional ways of handling grief—like keeping feelings bottled up or avoiding memories—usually don't bring comfort.

One story shared by a podcast guest really resonated with me; she grew up in a warm but emotionally reserved family when it came to grieving her mother's death. This episode offers practical ways to honor those we've lost. The six ideas shared in this episode are a starting point. Perhaps they will inspire you to think of other ideas. The point is not just to "get through" the holidays but also to embrace the gifts that grieving with others can bring. The ideas shared can support you in cultivating that within your family.

Often, one person in the family has to go first - to initiate the challenging, unknown things and break the mold of the grieving norms we've all grown accustomed to. This episode may be just what you need to hear to start to do grief differently.

I emphasize that everyone grieves differently, so it's important to communicate plans with family members and respect each person’s readiness to participate—or not—in these activities.

Ultimately, this episode encourages us all to find personal ways of remembering those we’ve lost; such gestures help maintain our bonds with them while adding depth and significance—even amidst sorrow—to the holidays ahead!

Please revisit Episode 1 if you’re dealing with estrangement issues too—and feel free to share today’s message widely among friends needing similar support because sharing both love & loss has healing power beyond measure. 💛

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NEED HELP?

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
• Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis Counselor

If you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.

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This episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief.

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