Holiday Help Guide: Honoring Loved Ones During the Holidays, Part 5 of 7
Holiday Help Guide: Your Tools for a Stress-Free Season, Part 5 of 7
Honoring Loved Ones During the Holidays
The holidays are a time of togetherness and celebration, but for those who have lost loved ones, this season can also feel like a magnifying glass on their absence. Memories flood in, traditions feel incomplete, and the joy around us can seem at odds with our grief.
If this resonates with you, know that your feelings are valid. Grieving during the holidays is a natural and human response to loss. Yet, within this grief lies an opportunity: to honor the love you shared and to find ways to carry their presence with you into the season.
The Pain of Absence During the Holidays
Grief doesn’t follow a schedule. While others may expect us to “move on” or focus on the festivities, the absence of someone dear can feel sharper during moments of celebration. It’s normal to feel sadness, anger, longing, or even guilt for enjoying yourself without them.
The key isn’t to push these feelings away but to acknowledge them as part of your process. Grief, after all, is love persevering—and that love can become a guide for how you honor your loved one during the holidays.
Memory Ritual: Keeping Their Spirit Alive
Creating a ritual to honor your loved one can provide comfort and a sense of connection. Here are some ways to make their memory part of your holiday season:
1. Light a Candle in Their Memory
Set aside a quiet moment to light a candle in their honor. As the flame burns, reflect on their light in your life and the impact they had on you.
2. Share Their Stories
Gather with family or friends to share stories and memories. Laughter and tears are both welcome—they’re part of keeping their spirit alive.
3. Continue a Tradition They Loved
Did they have a favorite dish, activity, or holiday song? Incorporate it into your celebrations as a tribute to the joy they brought.
4. Create a Memory Keepsake
Craft an ornament, scrapbook, or photo display in their honor. These tangible reminders can become cherished parts of your holiday decor.
5. Write Them a Letter
Pour your thoughts and feelings into a letter. Tell them what you miss, what you’re grateful for, and how their presence still influences your life.
Balancing Grief and Joy
It’s important to give yourself permission to grieve while also allowing moments of joy. These feelings can coexist.
Give Yourself Grace: There’s no “right” way to grieve during the holidays. Some days may be harder than others, and that’s okay.
Set Boundaries: If certain gatherings or traditions feel too overwhelming, it’s okay to opt out or modify them.
Seek Support: Whether through friends, family, or a grief support group, talking about your loss can help you feel less alone.
Reframing the Holidays
The absence of your loved one doesn’t diminish the love you shared. Instead of focusing solely on what’s missing, try reframing the season as a time to celebrate their impact on your life.
Ask yourself:
How can I honor their memory in a way that feels meaningful?
What would they want for me during this season?
How can I allow both grief and gratitude to shape my holiday experience?
This Holiday Season, Carry Them With You
Grief and love are deeply intertwined. By honoring your loved one’s memory, you can create space for healing, connection, and even a sense of peace.
If you’re navigating grief this holiday season, BreakBox Coaching is here to support you. Together, we’ll explore ways to process your feelings, honor your loss, and create a holiday experience that feels authentic and meaningful.
You’re not alone in this. Let’s honor their memory together. Click here to book your assessment now.
Zac