Grief is intensified at the holidays when joy and gatherings are contrasted with the loss of a loved one, whether it was this year or many years ago. The sense of separation can be acute when others are focusing on happy times, and inside we are hurting. We may need to be alone more often to let the pain take over. It may seem that it will last forever.
I am at an age where many of my friends are passing on. This month I lost 4 valued people in my life. I am particularly sensitive to how hard it is for their families to keep on with valued traditions in the midst of their loss. The connection with a loved one, whether it was many years or just months, are not easily broken. The person may be gone, but the memories and ties remain.
Cemeteries may be a place of solace and connection to ease the loss.
