Have you ever bought a card and never sent it? Have you ever found a gift for someone and never gave it to them? I’m guilty of this. In fact, I bought a gift for a dear friend months ago, and tomorrow is her birthday. Unfortunately, instead of giving it to her, I will give it to her grieving husband as she unexpectedly passed this week.
This holiday season let’s embrace the spirit of connection in all its forms. Send that gift, mail that card, write, and hit send on a text or DM on social media. Or you could go old school and make a phone call!
In a world where everyone is going through something, and some people going through extraordinary loss, a small gesture of reaching out can mean the world to them. And if it’s the first holiday for a friend without their long-term spouse, it’s crucial to let them know they’re not alone. It’s alright if you’re at a loss for words – sometimes, admitting that you don’t know what to say is more comforting than saying nothing at all.
Often, when we don’t know what to say, we choose silence. But this silence can feel isolating for someone who’s grieving. Let’s break that silence. Reach out, let them know you’re there, and that you care. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture; your presence, even in the form of a small message, can offer immense comfort. If you don’t know what to say, try these on for size:
- I am at a loss of the right words to say, but please know I’m here for you.
- I don’t know what to say right now, so let me just say I’m thinking of you.
- I can’t possibly know how it feels for you right now, but I am thinking about you during this difficult time.
So, this holiday season, let’s try to connect in whatever way we can. Whether it’s a card, a text, a DM, or just a few words, let’s ensure no one feels alone. Our gestures, however small, can light up someone’s world in ways we might never fully understand.
Merry Christmas and happy holidays everyone. Let’s spread love, care, and warmth, one message at a time.
Your Head Usher,
Marilyn
PS, this is the photo of my dear friend who lost her life this week. Marla Laughlin, thank you for being an incredible friend and I promise to stay connected to Jim and let him know we’re thinking of him.
