Hope in the Holidays
A message from Joan Souders, CGE, grief support specialist
As I think of the Christmas Season and all the excitement surrounding the holidays, I am reminded that those in grief can find it hard to celebrate.
The commercialism of the season may remind them of the loss they experienced. All the joyful music and happy commercial advertisements may add to the sadness of our losses.
They could be grieving the loss of a loved one, a dear pet, a career change, or even a family member or friend moving away.
Dr. Alan Wolfelt Ph.D., professor of Grief and Loss at Colorado State University, reminds us that we must lean on that “divine spark that is within all of us.”
I recently read of a mother who experienced the death of two of her four children. Their passings happened several years apart–one shortly after birth, and the other many years into living with the family. Christmas was much different in the years that these children passed.
This mother tells how she dealt with her deep loss. She learned about star registration, and so she followed up and bought a star. She named it after all four of her children in their birth order. She said it brings her comfort to know that they are together in the night sky. Her “divine spark” led her to purchase the star.
In many religious beliefs, a star can symbolize divine guidance and hope in the heavenly realm. The most prominent being the Star of Bethlehem.
Stars are celestial beings that will guide and illuminate the path of “divine spark” seekers. In some faiths, stars are often depicted as the place where gods and goddesses abide, symbolizing enlightenment. The Star of David is a symbol of Judaism and holds virtues for believers, such as kindness, harmony and perseverance, just to name a few.
Perhaps this holiday season we need to look to the night sky. In our sadness and sorrow, think of the virtues, guidance, and love those who have left us have brought into our lives. The night sky is a beautiful reminder of the love we shared with those who have gone before us.
Annual Grief and the Holidays Workshops
For many grieving the loss of someone dear to them, the holidays are not always a joyful time. Holiday traditions and the sense of togetherness are changed forever. For information about this year’s Grief and the Holidays workshops, call (509) 837-1676.
We are Here to Listen
Processing your story and journey in a supportive environment can be healing. Connect with a Heartlinks grief counselor by calling (509) 837-1676.
You can also visit our Grief Support page to learn more about upcoming grief support groups in your area or go to our resources page to request free books to help you and your family process and live through your grief journey.
