by Linda Cutshall, Director of Congregational Life

The holidays are coming. For some these are the toughest days of grief.

Perhaps someone you loved died? Our thankfulness for the life we lived with our loved one is so attached to our missing. Are you aware how few people feel comfortable bringing up the name of the deceased in front of family members?

“It’s as if they’re afraid I’m going to crumble into a puddle of tears,” a widow said. “I miss talking about him; He was such a part of my life and theirs, too.”

“I miss Dad, even after his being gone five years. He loved the ritual of looking for just the right tree. And now my mom’s gone. I want to talk about Mom but I don’t want to wear my friends out.”

Be brave enough to bring up the name of a person who’s died and give the gift of conversation to the bereaved this holiday season. We need our memories to remind us of who we are.

During the holidays people are more acutely aware of the loss of their dreams.

“I wish I could skip the holidays. I’m always reminded of what I don’t have… a spouse, kids, a big home to decorate, a loving family to spend time with, close friends who include me in their festivities… I try to be grateful, but with the holidays come sorrow and envy for what I wish I had.”

If you anticipate grieving as the holidays approach please give us a call. We’d be glad to put you in touch with someone to listen to your stories and help you make your way through the holiday season. For information, contact Linda Cutshall (lindac@bethanypc.org).

A brochures entitle “Coping with Grief ” is available in the lobby, or here via PDF: page 1, page 2.