DECEMBER – THE BEGINNING NOT THE END!

Another year has come and gone.  But, not the memories of all the experiences and opportunities taken or missed.  December is a month traditionally celebrated as the birth of Christ (Christmas), Kwanza (honor ancestor, affirm bonds of family and celebrate African and African American culture), Hanukkah (Rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem), and other ethnic/religious observances.  

It's also the month that ends the year and transitions to a New Year beginning January 1st.  In some ways, it’s the year where we put away the current year and prepare ourselves for a new year launched by wishful resolutions, new beginnings and opportunities.  December is known as the last month of the year and the end of the year.  I beg to differ. I see it as the month of the beginning of something new; the start of something different; the refresh and rebirth of new and old ideas and goals. 

A family tradition I grew up with was the clean the house from top to bottom to prepare it to be ready for the new year.  To cook certain foods to eat that would bring us good luck going into the new year.  To make an oath to leave behind the old behaviors and attitudes, so we could go into the new year “renewed.”  

But, as someone who is still grieving the loss of a beloved one, I see the new year as another chance to continue moving forward in my efforts to resolve to my new “normalcy.”  I also have more time to carry my loved one’s memory in my heart and call it up and reflect anytime I feel like it.  Each new year I celebrate carrying forward my loved one with me to experience every new opportunity together.  It may sound weird, but perhaps you can relate to what I’m trying to say.

I don’t put away old feelings and sentiments just because the year changed over.  That’s the beauty of God’s love and mercies.  He gives us something the have that no one else has and that is the inspiration and motivation that we have by carrying the memories of our loved one with us wherever we go.  So, I find comfort and peace in knowing that one year ended and another year began while I stayed the same. My grief journey continues, but it’s getting better because my memories help me move forward with confidence and hope and joy to still have the love of my beloved Mike deep inside me to lead my way.

I am thankful for this opportunity to share my thoughts of losing a loved one(s) with you in this safe, nonjudgmental community space for healing.  Do you have anything that you would like to share on this topic?  If so, would you share those thoughts and maybe how you are coping with losing a loved one in your life. 

God’s blessings and love to you!     grace