Coping With Grief: Thanksgiving
November 24, 2021
7 Steps for Coping with Grief at Thanksgiving:
* Talk About Your Loved One. Give yourself and other
permission to share stories and favorite memories. You may
also want your loved one favorite meal on the Thanksgiving
table.
permission to share stories and favorite memories. You may
also want your loved one favorite meal on the Thanksgiving
table.
* Journal. Waking up on Thanksgiving morning and realizing your
loved one is not with you to share in the day can be a very
emotional time. Instead of keeping what you are thinking and
feeling inside, try writing it all down in a journal or write a
letter to your loved one.
loved one is not with you to share in the day can be a very
emotional time. Instead of keeping what you are thinking and
feeling inside, try writing it all down in a journal or write a
letter to your loved one.
* Reminisce Over Old Photos. As you go through the photos,
either alone or with family and friends, remember the stories
behind the photos. Retell the jokes, laugh, cry and simply be in
the moment with all the emotions you are feeling.
either alone or with family and friends, remember the stories
behind the photos. Retell the jokes, laugh, cry and simply be in
the moment with all the emotions you are feeling.
* Take Time For Yourself. Whether it’s stepping outside to get
fresh air or deciding to stay home this Thanksgiving know you
have the right to create space for yourself to feel exactly what
you’re feeling. Allow yourself as much time as needed.
fresh air or deciding to stay home this Thanksgiving know you
have the right to create space for yourself to feel exactly what
you’re feeling. Allow yourself as much time as needed.
* An Empty Chair. While this may instensify the emotions of
grief for some, leaving an empty chair, place setting or candle is
a nice way to allow the memory of your loved one to live on at
the Thanksgiving table.
grief for some, leaving an empty chair, place setting or candle is
a nice way to allow the memory of your loved one to live on at
the Thanksgiving table.
* A Toast or Prayer. Ask to give a toast or prayer prior to sitting
down for your meal. Use this time to honor your loved one with
a special tribute.
down for your meal. Use this time to honor your loved one with
a special tribute.
* Begin An Annual Ritual. Even a simple gesture, such as, lighting
a candle to honor your loved one signifies that the memory still
lives on and burns bright. It is a ritual that promotes reflection
and signifies remembrance.
a candle to honor your loved one signifies that the memory still
lives on and burns bright. It is a ritual that promotes reflection
and signifies remembrance.
Everyone’s grief is so unique.
When it comes to grief and the holidays it can mean many things.
For some, it can bring comfort, memories and family.
For others, it is a painful time with the loss of loved ones.
For many, it is a combination of both.
Grief is your love.
Your grief is between you and your loved one.
May we hold space for every person who is grieving this holiday season.
For everyone who is missing your loved one at the holiday table…my heart is with you!
About Lisa
I am a grief counselor, certified grief educator, certified professional life coach, speaker, and writer dedicated to helping you navigate through life and loss. My greatest joy is to help others, to have the honor to listen to your story, and to offer hope. I am truly grateful and it is my privilege to be on this journey with you.