From the Editor

BY: Diane Snyder Cowan, MA, MT-BC, CHPCA

"A kind word can warm three months of winter."

-Japanese Proverb

 
For those of you who have experienced the death of a loved one, the impending holidays can be difficult.  The glitz and jingle of the season can be overwhelming.  First of all, be kind to yourself this December.  Second, know that there are others out there who have experienced the death of a loved one and are also feeling a heavy heart this holiday season.  You are not alone. Try to be open to feelings of peace and even some joy in your grief. 

Welcoming in the New Year can be anything but welcoming when you are grieving.  A new year raises questions about what the future holds and looking ahead can seem overwhelming.  Some people who are grieving, however, find that the New Year is a relief and look at it as a “fresh start.” 

It may seem unreal that time has marched on.  We have been used to counting the time since our loved one died in weeks or months and suddenly we are saying “my loved one died last year.”  That can come as a shock. 

Remember that it is normal to feel afraid that your memories will fade:  the reality is you will always hold the memory of your loved one in your heart.  You will remember what you need to when you need it.

With this edition of About Grief, we are happy to highlight our partnership with HMC Hospice of Medina County. We are excited to be better together as our two bereavement centers provide grief support throughout the communities we serve. 

We hope you find comfort and support with this issue of About Grief. We encourage you to review the support group listings and consider attending one.  It is our wish that the upcoming year will bring you strength, hope and peace.