Here’s hoping you all had an enjoyable, rejuvenating, and heartfelt Thanksgiving Day in whatever fashion you spent the holiday. How did you spend the kick-off to the holiday season?
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Bittersweet holiday season
Here’s something I think we should all consider: the reality for many caregivers is that holiday season can be bittersweet. Especially for those of us who have lost a loved one we were caring for.
Their spot at the dinner table sits empty
Quirky, memorable or even infuriating personality traits unique to them, are no more.
The parent or person who just may have been your biggest fan - is gone.
Let me send a prayer of support and a dose of positive energy to any of you who may be processing the grief of saying goodbye to a mother, father, other family member, or friend.
Please give yourself the time and space to process whatever you are feeling. It is different for each of us.
In consideration of the myriad of emotions we may all be feeling, I invite you to take a few moments to read a recent article I wrote for the American Society on Aging Generations Today publication.
It speaks to the heart of grief, how it ebbs and flows, and how it sneaks up on us at the oddest of moments. You can read the full article in the link below:
We’ve all heard it said that time heals all wounds. I wonder, Is that true? Is the loss of a loved-one a wound that can be healed? Or does that loss simply create an empty space within us that changes shape and intensity over time?
As we move into the thick of holiday season 2022, I offer a few wishes for you:
Find space and quiet for yourself when needed.
Be kind to yourself, realizing everyone processes grief differently. Remember - yours is unique to you.
Protect your personal energy. Consider who you allow into your personal circle and space. Make sure they are giving, supportive and nurturing - not ‘negative takers.’
Resist the urge to live up to marketing images and standards of what holiday season looks or feels like. Your season is for you - however that looks and feels.
Allow yourself to feel whatever feelings may wash over you, whenever they come. Allow yourself to simply BE.
I would love to hear some of your techniques for navigating these challenging moments.
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Dionne, thank YOU for jumping in and passing along information to others. I appreciate you AND any colleagues who are in the role of caregiver.
so grateful for you Julia. i have been sharing your good word with many i care for who are also moving through this challenging time. 💜