Loss can transform our lives, especially during special occasions like Thanksgiving. As our extended family carves new paths, so must we.ย Allow yourself to explore new ways of celebrating holidays and special occasions that feel authentic. Incorporate your loved one’s memory by lighting a candle or sharing their favorite dish, creating a loving connection between the past and present. The absence of loved ones can leave an unmistakable void, challenging us to face new traditions and find moments of joy despite the pain.
My husband and I took a detour to the mountains for Thanksgiving 2023.ย With the boys not home for the holiday, we felt we really needed to do something different.
We packed the truck and the dog and took a road trip to visit our friendโs mountain retreat near Yosemite. The house had a huge wood fireplace and ample wood for us to enjoy the crackle of a wood-burning fire every night. The dog naturally embraced her retriever instinct when the wild turkeys came by to visit. We even rode an ATV(something Iโve never done). Okay, it was more like the size of a golf cart, but that thing had some power.ย Iย must say, I can see why people like the off-road life.
In the daytime, I walked the trails, noticing the golden leaves and the majestic redwoods; I began embracing what is and craving less of what was.
Thatโs when this trip became restful. And it was exactly what we needed.
I am learning the importance of rest and recovery. Before grief, it wasn’t easy to immerse myself fully in moments of rest. Like runners needing time to recover after a hard run, our minds and bodies also suffer when we neglect to take time to heal during challenging seasons. By embracing rest and allowing ourselves to grieve, we create space for healing and renewal.
Thanksgiving morning, Kevin and I watched the sun rise over Tunnel View in Yosemite. It was spectacularโ albeit with a few clouds. There was much looking up with gratitude for the rest and simply the gift of being together. A last-minute idea was to incorporate the mom’s memory by using her fancy dishes and silverware for Thanksgiving dinner.
While Iโm learning, I can embrace the process.
- Reflect on moments of joy that have brought healing to your heart. How can you intentionally seek out these moments and give yourself permission to experience joy amidst the pain?
- In what ways can you be gentle and compassionate with yourself as you navigate the journey of grief? How can you create space for healing to unfold at its own pace?
