196 ~ Handling Christmas After Loss

By Kay Heitsch

Christmas can be a tough time for someone who has experienced a profound personal loss. Every situation is different.

My emotions after my folks died have been totally different than thinking about Todd at Christmas time.

The first Christmas after Todd died, I had Shannon and Brandon to think about. I wanted them to enjoy the holiday and have good memories. I went through the everyday Christmas things. But it was hard!

I remember I wrote "Lovingly, Bill, Kay, Shannon, Brandon, and in loving memory of Todd" on the Christmas cards. I had to include Todd. It was so weird not to start with his name, naming the children. I stopped doing that after the first year. But it seemed to help me deal with the pain in my heart that first year.

I made things that Todd and everyone enjoys. I still do to this day. The treats are a tradition. I ask, and everyone puts in their request.

I'm sure I'm not alone. Christmas brings back memories and emotions at various times during the season. I miss Todd, and being around family seems to intensify my feelings. I do my best, with God's help, to hold it together.

With God's help, we can get through anything knowing He will bring good out of it. I like to keep that thought.

Remember how I led you on this long journey. Deuteronomy 8:2