Words That Weigh Heavy: Navigating Difficult Wishes in Grief

Holidays can be complicated without considering grief. When grieving a loss, your favorite times may feel like an obstacle you must manage for the first time.  At first it can be difficult to distinguish this time of year from the rest of the year, as every turn of the calendar can be a reminder of your loss. 

Reflecting on autumn often evokes a sense of warmth and comfort, conjuring images of cozy sweaters, delicious pies, and warm bonfires. However, the deeper symbolic meanings of autumn extend far beyond these familiar comforts, intertwining with the essence of human existence. 

Grief and gratitude, though seemingly contrasting emotions, can coexist harmoniously. It is entirely possible to hold the sorrow of loss in one hand while embracing the beauty of life with the other. 

Certain smells associated with Thanksgiving and Christmas can trigger grief, particularly for people who have lost loved ones or are navigating other forms of emotional pain. Smell is closely linked to memory and emotion, due to how the brain processes scents.