Connecting in Spirit and Memory During the Holiday SeasonArticle provided by the Denver Hospice (
www.denverhospice.org)
Holidays are to be spent with those most precious to us. When a loved one dies, we may long for their presence during these times.
“The presence of that absence is everywhere.†Edna St. Vincent-Millay
Here are some suggestions...ways to connect and remember your loved one during the holiday season:
1) Make a memory box and place it by the holiday table. Provide squares of paper and pens so each person who wishes may share a fond memory. When the box is full, pass it around the table and read the memories aloud.
2) Buy a gift for yourself - something your loved one would have picked out for you. Or try making a card or gift for your loved one.
3) Hang a special symbol, ornament or decoration that invites your loved one’s presence into the room. Play their favorite song. You can do this with others or alone.
4) Give someone else what you wish you could give your loved one. Donate to someone in need.
5) Light a candle by your loved one’s picture and spend some time sharing your hopes, fears, joys and struggles this holiday season. Speak aloud directly to your loved one, or write your thoughts and feelings down.
As you move through the holiday season, acknowledge the fact that you will carry your loved one’s spirit or memory with you. At times the raw and tender beauty of this burden may bring you to your knees.
At other times, it may be the very thing that lifts you up and opens you to moments of connection, appreciation and love.
Source: Creative Transformation
It's all about "how much you made when you were right" & "how little you lost when you were wrong"