It’s that time of year—the so-called “most wonderful time of the year.” But in reality, it doesn’t
always feel that way. The hustle and bustle, the constant rushing from one thing to the next,
can leave many feeling overwhelmed, drained, and emotionally spent. Sometimes, the energy
to embrace the festivities just isn’t there. This year, that couldn’t feel truer for me. The idea of
celebrating the way I have in the past seems almost impossible.
In late July, my family suffered a devastating lost. My father passed away unexpectedly
following what should have been a routine hip replacement surgery. While the procedure itself
went well, a blood clot afterward traveled to his heart, taking him from us far too soon. Since
that day, my family and have been navigating the suffocating weight of grief, trying to find our
way though.
There’s no manual for how to handle the holidays while grieving, no right or wrong way to
approve it. All we can do is take it one day at a time, leaning on each other for strength and
support. Grief has a way of taking a toll—not just on your emotions but on your physical health,
too. Even today, after attending Sunday school and church, I found myself needing a moment
of solitude. I had to step away from lunch with my family, retreating to rest both my body and
my mind.
Grief can come in many forms. The pain can also be a job loss, loss of a relationship, financial
issues, depression, and loneliness. How do you manage it? The holidays that hurt and try to
rob you of your peace?
Here are some things we can do when our emotions become too overwhelming during the
holidays:
1. Give Yourself Permission to Grieve:
Allow yourself to grieve in the way that feels right for you. It’s okay to experience moments of
joy one day and overwhelming sorrow the next. Grief in not linear.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Say No:
Prioritize your health and well-being by keeping a schedule that works for you. It’s okay to
decline commitments or invitations that feel too overwhelming.
3. Honor Your Loved One’s Memory:
Create moments of remembrance. For example, we recently lit a candle in honor of my dad
during his Young a Heart Christmas celebration. Afterward, we gathered at my mom’s house,
sitting around the kitchen table, sharing cherished stories and favorite memories.
4. Seek Support When Needed:
Don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted family members or friends for comfort. If needed,
consider joining a grief support group or seeking guidance from a mental health professional.
5. Be Flexible with Your Schedule: Emotions can be unpredictable, and some days may require
unexpected adjustments. For instance, today didn’t go as planned, but taking time to care
for myself was essential.
6. Lean on Your Faith:
Faith and spirituality can provide immense comfort during grief. Attending church has always
been a lifeline for my family, and I personally find solace in reading scripture. When grief brings
pain, anger, or depression, turn to the Prince of Peace. Here are a few of my favorite verses:
The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
-Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
This is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:
A time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a
time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time
to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to
embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to
keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a
time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
-Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8 (NIV)
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
-Matthew 5:4 (NIV)
I have discovered that true peace can only be found in Jesus Christ. He provides the inner
security that calms our hearts and minds, no matter the circumstances we face. This has
always been the Father’s goal: To bring us peace through a relationship with Him. The world
cannot fill the void in our hearts, but He can. Try setting aside time each day to connect with
Him. Your own “Silent Night” is possible when you trust in the power of the true Prince of
Peace. As Isaiah beautifully writes: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are
steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is
the Rock eternal.”
May God bless you and bring you comfort during this holiday season.
