For some, the coming to the end of the year can be exciting as they plan New Year's Resolutions, clean to start with a fresh slate, and party into the morning hours to ring in the new year. But for others, the end of the year can bring a sense of finality.
If this is the year that you have experienced loss, the end of the year can be bitter, painful, and filled with resentment.
When I lost my loved one, New Year's Eve felt looming. Friends were making plans to go out, families were making plans for yearly traditions of dinners, games, and movies, and I was left with my feelings.
I didn't want to celebrate the end of the year, or the start of the next. I knew that ending that year would be official, and final, that my loved one was never going to live in another year. I was filled with a feeling that I didn't want to see a new year without him living it with me. I was swallowed up by a feeling of emptiness, a longing for my normal life back.
How could I set a New Year's resolution, in a year where one of my favorite people wouldn't be there?
Why would I celebrate the end of the last year my person would ever live on earth with me?
If this is the year you've lost a loved one, I hope you are able to spend the last couple days of the year relishing in the memories. May your year reflection be filled with looking back fondly on pictures with your loved one, and honoring the part of the year you were able to spend with them.
However you end this year and start the next, may your memories be filled with love and hope as you continue your healing journey.
Comments