Grieving During The Holidays

The holidays can be a difficult time for those of us who have lost loved ones. It doesn't really matter how long it has been since we lost those we loved, the grief always comes back around as we miss them more so at this time of year. I've always had a tremendous amount of Christmas spirit, I listened to hours of Christmas music, decorated the house in excess, and of course ate way too much. Since I lost my Will, I just don't have that Christmas spirit and I truly can't wait for the holidays to be over. I know that this is not the most uplifting post, but I also know that I am not alone in feeling this way. So I'm writing this post for all of you who are in the same bah humbug mood and to let you know that it's okay to feel this way. Many people don't understand why we grieve and think that we should just move on, push past these feelings, and put on a happy face. But grieving is an important part of the healing process and everyone handles it in their own way. I believe that it is important to recognize your feelings and embrace them, not push them aside. If you allow them to surface, you can work through them and then move forward. Will and I had a special bond, a minute would not pass in the day without me thinking of him. I would feel excited when I heard his truck coming down the driveway, like a giddy little kid. And through the years we spent together, that feeling never went away. Even when we were going through rough times as everyone does in a relationship. After he passed our bond did not fade, in fact it became stronger. I have always believed in eternal life and that our souls continue on after we leave our bodies. That belief has grown so much since his passing. I have read many books and watched documentaries on the afterlife and it has brought me so much peace to know that Will is thriving and watching over me. I have spoken to mediums, who passed along information to me that no one would possibly know except for Will. The beautiful thing about believing in the afterlife, is you no longer fear death, and cherish every minute of our time here in the physical form and the wonderment of this amazing place.. My gratitude for the little things in life has increased tremendously, and I am constantly recognizing the beauty of nature, the entertaining little quirks of my animals, and the love that people share. When you feel loss and you grieve a loved one, it also allows you to feel and appreciate the positive aspects of life even more so. Your heart opens wide, if you let it, and you have a greater understanding of your life's purpose. For some time, I thought that your life's purpose had to be something profound. But it's really as simple as letting your love flow, sharing your light with others, and feeling every moment with an open heart. So for all of you who are grieving or having a tough time during the holidays, know that it's okay, you're not alone. If you need someone to talk to and help you get through, I encourage you to reach out to your friends and family. And always know that your loved ones who crossed over are still with you.