Grief / Christmas

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 Missing Loved Ones and Embracing the Joy of the Season

With Christmas fast approaching, I can’t help but remember loved ones and friends who have left us too soon—or at least it feels too soon because I miss them so much, especially during the holidays. If you’ve experienced loss, you know there’s no set timeline for grieving, and everyone processes it differently. It’s not a choice we want to make, but each of us has to decide whether to keep going or allow our grief to consume us.

Faith: A Lifeline in Grief 

I found a list on a grieving site that perfectly describes the experience of loss. I’ll share it at the end of this article, hoping it will bring comfort to anyone struggling this season.

It’s been one year now—December 8th, 2023— since my son departed this world. I am still finding my way, learning how to navigate through the heaviest grief I’ve ever experienced and holding onto the promises I’ve known since childhood. 

Turning from weeping to joy felt impossible, but my faith—and the encouragement of family and friends—sustained me. I prayed daily, often with just one word: HELP.

That was the only prayer I could muster. And still, some mornings, I begin with this simple prayer:

”Help me today, Lord”. 

Lessons And Blessings 

Going forward in this season of life, I’m cherishing my loved ones, leaving nothing unsaid, and showing gratitude for every moment. I can’t take it for granted that my friends and loved ones will always be here, and I look forward to seeing the friends and loved ones I’ll meet again in heaven

 Club No One Wants to Join 

No parent wants to outlive their children, and no-one wants to say goodbye to their sibling, parents or friends. A dear friend of mine who also lost her son said, “It’s a club no one wants to join.”

At first, I couldn’t get through the day without tears. Now, the grief comes in waves. I’m learning to allow the joy to seep in, asking God to lift me up when sadness overwhelms me. 

God reminds us through his word, and through people who testify of Jesus Christ and the life to come, that if our loved one was a believer, we will be reunited. This hope sustains us, even as we miss them deeply.

I spoke with another friend who lost his son seven years ago. He told me that grief doesn’t get easier; you simply learn to live with it. Death is part of life. 

How heartbreaking it would be to say goodbye to someone you love and not believe you’ll see them again!