Christmas is hitting our family hard this year. We lost our mother and now my sister's brother-in-l

[demtenjeep]

and this will be the first christmas with them both gone. It has been a longer time since we have lost our mom, earlier this spring/summer. We will be very sad as both our parents are gone now. We are all adults so it is just our emotions we are dealing with .

My sister lost her brother-in-law two weeks ago. He was in his mid 40-s never married after his fiancee left the week before with the best man...but he was loved my many. There are 6 of us siblings, we have each other to help through the sad times. My sister's hubby only had his brother. He is taking it really rough. My heart goes out to them. Christmas won't be the same this year.

[sabrina 1]

1. I am really sorry. I know how it feels to lose someone you love

especially around the holidays. Wish I could think of something to say that would be comforting, but I'm glad that you at least have your brothers and sisters as grief is a bit more bearable when it is shared with loved ones.

Take care

[Big Blue Marble]

2. I am sorry to read of your losses.

It is so very hard to face our losses at this time of year. I lost my husband this summer. He died suddenly and I am still dealing with the shock.

Christmas brings in the stark reality that he will not be with us to celebrate his beloved Christmas. He reveled in the joy of the holiday season. And he contributed so much to each aspect of our celebration.

Take comfort in knowing you and your family are not alone in your grief. There are many of us who share the pain of the absences of our dear precious family members

Hugs.

[Kaleva]

3. Very sorry to hear that.

Christmas has changed greatly for me as older people have passed on and the younger generations grow up, have their own familys and get older themselves.

[demtenjeep]

4. this song was played at Randy's home going celebration

during the funeral with slides of his best pictures.

[lbrtbell]

5. Words fail me.

I wish I could think of something comforting...then I realize, nothing can take away that kind of pain. All I can offer is sympathy.

Bless you and your family.

[nadinbrzezinski]

6. May you know a measure of peace.

And I am sorry.

[Lugnut]

7. It's a tough time of year to face losses.

My mother died on Christmas day in 2010. If she'd been well she would've been with us for dinner that day. We still have our memories of the good times, demtenjeep.

[mercuryblues]

8. 5 years ago

Xmas eve, My siblings and I were planning my Mother's funeral. That was hard, it was also my first Christmas away from my kids. I wish I could say it gets easier. I can tell you that by changing the focus from the people you lost to the young ones, helps me. I know my Mom would never want her kids and grandkids to be sad on Christmas, because of her passing. Sure we all think of her and there will always be a remember when that comes up. It is best to honor your lost family members for the traditions and joy they inspired. So raise a glass, count your blessings and acknowledge your losses.

The first Xmas Eve, on top of the stress of the season I tried to ignore the sadness. It made for an interesting day. My kids picked up on it, and said It has been 1 year since Gramma died. In that instant, I realized by me trying to ignore and just getting through the day, I was denying my kids the ability to remember and grieve. We talked about it for a few minutes and afterward I felt a tremendous relief. You can and should enjoy the holiday, without guilt. That is what your loved ones would expect of you.