Just the other day I posted a comment on Facebook and also on Twitter indicating the importance of remembering family as the holiday season approaches. My words to that point said, “As we approach the holiday season remember to keep family first, love is the best gift of all and can last a lifetime.” To some this may not have been a big deal but to others this really means a lot. In fact, my sentiments to this statement have hit home with the loss of a dear loved one. Losing a loved one is never easy, it is an emotional experience that no one wants to go through. The holiday season (Thanksgiving/Christmas) makes the situation even harder to coupe with. 

The winter holidays can present a sad chain of events for many as they go through the winter blues (blahs). I often think about my dad during this time, remembering the many Christmas’s that he made possible for all eight of his children. Never did I hear him complain. As an adult with children of my own, I realize the thought of supporting a large family must have been a daunting task. However, I now realize that it was not about the gift exchange that made the holiday’s special, it was the gathering of the combined families sharing laughs and enjoying one another’s companionship.

This year I grieve with my extended family (Uncle and cousins) in the loss of their mother. I know this holiday season will present a challenge but they are a strong family and they love each other very much. That alone will help them see their way through this tragedy and will keep them moving forward. Losing a parent is never easy, especially when the parent has been an iconic member of the family. My prayer for this family is that they continue to share in laughter and love, caring on the tradition that our parents have instilled in them. Keep family first and give thanks to God for all things, for in due season we shall all meet again. 

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