16th December 2022
This year, I am certainly trying to focus on the joy Christmas can bring. It’s been a very tough few years dealing with grief.
You may know that I created this blog after my mum passed away in 2019. My blog is addressed to her and I write for her. My first post was a piece I started writing during our last Christmas together.
It was the most difficult experience I’ve had and most definitely a Christmas that broke my heart. It was surreal and I struggled to truly digest what was happening- what used to be a shared and joyous occasion was heart-wrenching as my mum’s condition deteriorated.
Today, she is all I think about and with every Christmas following my mum’s death, the pain is still there. It’s that reminder that Christmas will never be the same and that it will always be tainted by my loss.
My own experiences of loss and grief has made me truly realise that tragedy happens no matter the season. Lately, this knowledge has felt very real and heavy in my heart.
Recent events have reminded me to take extra care of loved ones and myself this season, especially my grief and mental health. I am reminded to pay closer attention to loved ones and of the gratitude I feel to have them in my life today.
If there’s one thing I have learned so far, it’s that there is healing in the small things we do after our loss, like trying to find joy in Christmas again, but there is so much healing and comfort in keeping our connections.
With Christmas right around the corner and festivities in full swing, I think now is an important time to check in with others and yourself. Whether we are near or far apart, we can celebrate in joy and comfort each other through the difficult things.
These are the times to take a step back from the hustle and bustle, and really hold the people you love, make stronger connections and take thoughtful action.
The best gift is love.
Don’t forget to prioritise your wellbeing and remember what really matters this Christmas.
Dear Jo-Anne 