“Oh! There’s no place like home for the holidays,
‘Cause no matter how far away you roam,
If you wanna be happy in a million ways,
For the holidays you can’t beat home sweet home!”
The holidays have arrived! For most people, it will be a time of celebration, a bright and beautiful occasion, marvelously arrayed in hope and wonder. For many, familiar refrains of favorite seasonal songs emotionally reconnect us with precious memories indelibly imprinted on our souls.
We share with open arms and hearts Gratitude’s warm glow for the friendships, partnerships, and blessings of another year. Mindful of the bodies and souls nourished, the financial burdens lightened, and the spirits lifted through the caring generosity of all who’ve joined DHOH in supporting our community of young adult guest families and caregivers; we convey the deepest appreciation to all.
For some, we know joy will be elusive this holiday season. Our thoughts and hearts are with you! Brilliantly lit decorations and an atmosphere imbued with festive gaiety may amplify feelings of loss and despair. While no one can take the pain of loss away, it may be helpful to recognize that grief is not just pain. Jamie Anderson says it beautifully: “Grief, I’ve learned, is really just love. It’s all the love you want to give, but cannot. All that unspent love gathers up in the corners of your eyes, the lump in your throat, and in that hollow part of your chest. Grief is just love with no place to go.” It’s not surprising at all that we feel grief’s presence prominently during the holidays.
Grief is the normal, natural process of reacting to any poignant loss. If you share the holidays with family or friends enduring loss, consider that your quiet presence, a warmly wrapped encouraging smile, caring shoulder, or listening ear may be the greatest gift you give this season. If you need additional resources on grief support, below are a few good ones that may be helpful.
With love and warm wishes to you and your families for the Holidays!
Dawn Kenneavy
Grief Support Resources for the Season:
Mistakes We Make When Trying To Comfort Friends Who Are Grieving During The Holidays
In Memory of Dan Kenneavy
March 29, 1989 – December 12, 2009
