Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/301854
97 HOLIDAYS CAN BE THE MOST TRYING Chapter Twenty T he holidays, certain occasions, and even special events can be a very difficult time for those who are grieving. The holidays are a reminder of the people who should be at the holiday table, but are not. Their absence remains, even as the years pass. Of course, it does get easier; it is always a tough. It's import- ant to realize that you don't have to do things the way you've al- ways done them. It may be a good time to start some new traditions, this doesn't mean you're going to lose the old traditions; Address the "elephant in the room" by acknowledging your child or loved one and including him or her in your gathering by lighting a can- dle, making a toast in his or her honor, cooking their favorite dish or sharing favorite memories and funny stories about them. It may be difficult to start these conversations but it will benefit everyone around you and help each of you heal a little bit at a time. Remem- ber to give "thanks" for what you had and what you still have… memories, love and feelings in our hearts can never be taken from us unless we allow it. I found myself the first few Christmas's after losing my sweet Bryant looking for gifts for him when I was shopping for others. For a split second I would see something and think, "Bryant would love that.'' I still have moments of heart-felt sadness during the hol- idays. Sometimes, the days leading up to Thanksgiving or Christ-