Thanksgiving began a holiday season that can be particularly difficult for the bereaved. While grief “triggers” know no calendar, holidays evoke memories of friends, family, food and fun. Therefore, holidays represent our friend. After the death of a loved one, the very same holiday can become our foe.

You might hear someone say, “I don’t want to put up my decorations”, “I won’t host the holiday dinner”, or “I’m not buying gifts.” How can you support a grieving friend or family member? The kindest gift to offer is to listen and take your cues from them. Offer NO advice and do NOT judge. Offer to help with a specific task in mind.

At this holiday season, give the gifts of compassion and patience.

– Harriet