Christmas Won't Be The Same This Year

There is a classic holiday song that says "Christmas won't be the same this year" and never has that been more true for me. This will be the first Christmas since my mother passed away. The holidays are a difficult time for those who have lost loved ones. That had never been so true for the family members of those slain in Newtown, CT. I remember my mother struggling to enjoy the holidays after losing her own parents. It was a difficult reminder for her as this upcoming Christmas will be for me and my family. I remember telling her that she still has us (her children) and the rest of the family and that Grandma would not like to see her sad. Eventually she adjusted and got right back into it being the matriarch of the family. This time is for family, no matter who we have lost. Despite losses of loved ones, one must consider the reason for the season.

I'm not going to begin a historical and philosophical debate on when Jesus Christ was born etc. What I do know is that December 25th is the world wide accepted day we celebrate his birth. For all those who are not believers its a holiday to them as well about the exact same principles christians share (just minus the birth of The Lord and Savior) and thus the majority of the world celebrates. Life continues to move on when our loved ones pass as a result so must we. That fact does not make it any easier as I personally know all too well.

For all those who find themselves struggling to find the Christmas spirit consider the other family members and loved ones in your life. It was hard on me watching my mother deal with her struggle. In my mind I am thinking what about me? For all of us out there who have their struggles never forget the reason or your remaining friends and family. I know my mother would want me (and her mother before her) to carry on a loving and celebratory tradition. Despite our losses lets never forget to be thankful and appreciative of being here and all those we still have. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.