Not So Merry and Bright
Yes, I know, another holiday post. It won’t be the last either, I’m sure.
This has always been my favorite time of year. I love the lights, the music, and spending time with the people I care about the most. There’s nothing better than curling up to watch corny holiday movies with a cup of hot chocolate.
After a loss, the holidays can be incredibly hard. It can be torture to be consistently slapped in the face by the joy of others when your world has just fallen apart.
I know I’ve covered ways for you to take care of yourself over the holidays, but I wanted to take a quick minute for those of you who may encounter grieving people over the holidays.
If you ask them how they’re doing, be prepared to listen. More often than not, I learned to just start saying “I’m holding up alright”, because I quickly learned that my honesty made people uncomfortable. Fidgeting in place and averting your eyes doesn’t do either one of us any favors.
Don’t be a “wouldn’t want”. “They wouldn’t want you to be sad.” Grieving people can’t control how they feel, and the last thing they need is more guilt from your well intended statement.
If they choose to talk about their loss with you, let them. If you’re an associate, chances are they won’t. On the off chance that they deem you safe enough to share their inner thoughts with, respect that.
Please try to remember, this season isn’t merry and bright for everyone. Go in peace.
