The loneliest walk you’ll ever take is the one down the road of grief. – Author Unknown

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I don’t know about you, but I’ve found that the holidays can be a time of sadness, pain, anger or dread for anyone dealing with an illness, grief or the loss of a loved one. Let’s take a moment to identify some very important coping skills that will help you or someone you know conquer grief during the holidays.

• • Be kind and offer yourself some grace – Everyone has unique grief experiences. Give yourself permission to feel whatever it is you’re feeling. If you feel sad, allow the tears to come; if you feel angry, allow yourself to vent some steam in a safe manner.
  • Set realistic expectations for yourself – Remind yourself that this year is different. Be sure to get plenty of rest and nourishment. Do not take on more than you can handle.
  • Ask for and accept help – It’s okay to tell your loved ones the best way that they can help you during this difficult time. If you desire the affection of others, seek it out. Remember, ask and you shall receive.
  • Set healthy boundaries with family and friends – Allow yourself time to grieve and understand what you’re feeling inside. Decide new holiday routines when you’re ready and feel comfortable.
  • Surround yourself with people who love and support you – Sharing your feelings is often the best way to get through them and finding people you can talk to will help.
  • Write journal entries to express yourself – Don’t be afraid to express yourself and tune into your grief emotions while writing journal entries.
  • Make a difference in your community – Give to your favorite charity organization, purchase a gift for a needy child or consider volunteering at a homeless shelter. This can help you cope with your grief by contributing to the greater good within your community.

GREAT IDEAS TO HONOR YOUR LOVED ONE

In this hollow I do grieve for all the things that cease to be. – Angie Weiland-Crosby

Choose to create a special way to memorialize your loved one this holiday season. Here’s some great ideas you can use to honor your loved one and keep their memories alive:

• Light a candle.
• Arrange to have a prayer vigil.
• Create an online tribute.
• Make a memorial ornament, wreath or holiday decoration.
• Share your favorite story, quote or poem.
• Release balloons or sky lanterns.
• Plant a tree and create a stone garden.
• Visit your loved one’s special place.
• Recite a special prayer and choose to have a moment of silence.
• Make a donation to a charity of your choice.

Keep in mind, the best gift you can give anyone you love is that of being true to yourself and living your life to the fullest, even as you adjust to the loss of a loved one during the holidays. With time, patience, and the right coping skills I am certain you will conquer grief during this holiday season and beyond!

PRAYER

God of love and mercy, embrace all those whose hearts today overflow with grief, unanswered questions and such a sense of loss. Immerse them in your love and lead them through this darkness into your arms, and light. Grant them space to express their tears. Hold them close through the coming days. Amen.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Missing you comes in waves, tonight I’m drowning. – Unknown Author

I love journaling because it is a safe place for me to put my feelings and emotions into words, then put my words into action. Remember, journaling is your very own personal journey throughout life, your ups and downs, your successes, and failures. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Ready, set, write!

• Why are you grieving?
• What is your fondest memory of your loved one?
• What are some of your grief triggers?
• Why do you feel lost and broken?
• What was your high and low on today?
• What do you know to be true in this moment?
• How do you prefer to honor your loved one during the holiday season?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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