Christmas thoughts

Daffodil 5 hours ago

2 replies

The Christmas period can be especially hard for those living with a terminal illness, caring for someone, or those who are bereaved, whether recently or a while ago. It can feel very lonely and isolating, and yet there are so many who have this experience at the moment (including myself). I would therefore like to open this thread as an invitation for sharing thoughts and memories.

LauraMC1 3 hours ago

Thank you so much for this Anke. I agree Christmas can be really hard when you are in these situations.

In recent years I have found it easier to start new traditions with my own children whilst also keeping traditions of my Mum's alive even if it is a small thing like hanging tinsel round all the picture frames.

We always do a special toast on Christmas Day to those loved ones who are no longer with us and I put time aside to visit my parents grave with some Christmas flowers.

Thinking of everyone who is struggling this Christmas.
Laura (member of the Information and Support Team)

Daffodil 40 minutes ago

Thank you very much for sharing your new traditions, Laura! Merging your Mum's traditions with your own, as a mother, sounds absolutely lovely. The toast on Christmas Day makes your celebrations special, and you also find time for yourself and the memory of your parents when visiting their grave.

Your special toast reminded me of a tradition established by a local church: a pre-Christmas service dedicated to those who are no longer with us. It offers an hour of peace, reflection, quiet carols, and the lighting of candles, and is rather popular. I found it a lovely way to be by myself, with my own thoughts and memories, in a special setting amidst many, many others who are there to do the same.

Joining you in thinking of everyone who is struggling this Christmas,

Anke