Let’s face it – the holidays are not always “the most wonderful time of the year”. They can be stressful for everyone. We’ve got societal, family, and our own unmet expectations we’re balancing.
On top of all of that, even though it’s been almost 20 years since my daughter Alison died, I still also carry the weight of her not being present during these significant family times. So through the lens of my experience here are things I try to address and do to make the holidays better:
Parker’s ideas challenged me to think about how I plan times with my friends as well as re-energize how I facilitate groups.
We just made it through quite possibly the most stressful Thanksgiving ever! No matter how you celebrated, or didn’t celebrate – can we all agree this year was different? Whether you were able to gather with friends or family or stayed isolated, the circumstances of the pandemic lent a new layer of considerations to theContinue reading “Post- Holiday Hangover”
The holidays are a tough season for many who’ve lost a loved one. And not just the first year, or the second. I still have my moments close to twenty years later. What’s different for me is that I’m a seasoned pro. I know by now what works for me and what doesn’t. Many ofContinue reading “Holding Space During the Holidays”
I often field messages from people who feel helpless as they watch a loved one bear a devastating loss. They search for tangible ways to help, or resources to give. Unfortunately, grief is hard work only the grieving can do. However creating partnership alongside in the grief – holding space, a place of loving non-judgmentContinue reading “Partnership in Grief”