Coping with Memories of Grief and Loss During the Holidays

Festivities, decorations, and good cheer mark the holidays and Christmas time in particular. While everyone is celebrating and partaking in great food and conversation, if you have recently lost a loved one, all of these things seem to have no meaning for you at all.

The pain and grief that you feel as well as the sense of loss become heightened at times such as these. While nothing can bring your loved one back, there are some things you can do to cope with the grief and loss during the holidays.

• Traditions are something you follow as a matter of habit, but these are ever-evolving and you can create a new one. You can start a new tradition at Christmas time that includes some activity your deceased loved one enjoyed participating in. This will help you cope with your emotions and give you some satisfaction and peace too.
• Flowers have always been and are a symbol of love and affection. If the person liked specific flowers, you can get some of those for your house during the holiday season. It will add to the beauty of your house and remind you of your loved one too.
• It’s also a good idea to donate to those in need during the holidays. Not everyone may be as fortunate as you are and you can contribute something to charity. Choose a charity that your loved one supported or find one you support and make a donation in the name of the departed person. It’s a nice way to your loved one’s memory alive.

When you focus on turning your memories into positive thoughts, it helps you draw solace from them, rather than get engulfed in them and become depressed and sad.

If you have any questions about helping yourself heal from loss,  or want to know more about our services, just contact us or give us a call at (604) 888-9895. We at Arbutus Funeral Service will be happy to help.