Graceful Goodbyes

While many are hanging tinsel and checking their lists, singing Christmas carols and making merry… others are struggling with grief during the holidays. Be aware. Pay attention. Listen. Hold space for those experiencing grief.

Know that inviting someone to Christmas, when they are experiencing grief, means you are inviting their grief as well. Don’t expect merriment. Invite them with the loving intention of offering companionship during the holiday season with a spirit of “come as you are”. Whether it’s the first or the 51st Christmas without their person, they will appreciate your loving intention.

The first Sunday of May marks international Bereaved Mother’s Day. This day honours those who have lost a child, no matter the cause.

Thinking of all bereaved mothers today, and always.

Sending gentle holiday wishes to you and yours, whether here in flesh or in spirit.

Be kind to yourself and gentle with others, as not all holidays are happy.

Do what feels right, light a candle, say a prayer or hold space for lost loved ones and their families this holiday season.

https://www.lionsroar.com/the-life-changing-practice-of-death-awareness/?utm_content=buffere30d8&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com%2Flionsroarbuddhism&utm_campaign=buffer&fbclid=IwAR1a-DcJkCJ7ERT4atmAV70yByONd8KPu478a7s8IAQfT_oPMi9g1S2K6v4

The Life-Changing Practice of Death Awareness Chris Pacheco, Lion’s Roar’s Associate AV Editor, on why you might take up the Buddhist practice of maranasati, or mindfulness of death — even if you really, really don’t want to.

How do you bring memories of your lost loved ones into the present and future?

"Through thought and memories, we continue our bonds with those we love and have forever lost. Some people focus on a sign or signal of a loved one’s presence, such as the blooming of an orchid on the anniversary of a death, or a hummingbird fluttering at the window. Others privately communicate with departed loved ones through fantasies, prayers, rituals, holy objects, or conversations."

Grief: Why We Have an Ongoing Relationship With the Deceased Thoughts and memories help us find ways to continue bonds with those we love.