We sometimes forget at Christmas that the season might not be merry for everyone. This is a letter I sent to a friend who recently lost her mother.
I wanted you to know that I have been thinking of you this Christmas season. Though I don’t know exactly how you feel, I have learned that the first Christmas without a loved one is a difficult time. The holidays can seem more like something to survive than to enjoy. Sadness fills your heart.
Every year after Thanksgiving for many years, we go to Chicago to see Santa and the holiday windows at Marshall Fields, now Macy’s. We have lunch in the famous Walnut room. We buy our Frango mints and do some shopping. We have a wonderful dinner at Chinatown, but the best part of the day is just enjoying being together as a family. The picture is how we wove the memory of Brian into our Christmas tradition. We go to the Christkindlmarket and share a slice or two of poppy seed strudel and hot chocolate. It was what my son, Brian, loved to do and even seven years after his death we are still doing it. It is our way of knowing that he is not forgotten, as we keep his memory alive. It helps me to know that he won’t be forgotten; that his love transcends place and time. It brings me a peace that is hard to describe.
I have learned that people all mourn differently, but what is important is that your loved one is remembered and loved. So today, I prayed a prayer a Thanksgiving for your mom. I am thankful your mom gave you such happy Christmas memories in your heart. I don’t know how to take away your pain, but I do want you to know how much we love you and I know your mom’s love and impact lives on, through you. Wishing you tidings of comfort and joy.
Staying in Touch: Barbara Hirsh can be reached at info@LiveKinder.com I love hearing your kindness stories. Please sign-up for almost weekly kindness message at www.LiveKinder.com or follow LiveKinder on Facebook!
