If there’s one thing this holiday season confirmed for me, it’s that Christmastime is forever changed in my book after having lost my dad to suicide. We all know the loss of a loved one impacts our emotions and even longstanding traditions. But, in addition to simply missing my dad this time of year, I’ve come to learn his death has a lingering and significant halo effect on my view of Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
For the past few years, I’ve ...
New Years After Losing a Loved One
New Years after losing a loved one to suicide can be difficult for survivors. New Years is supposed to be a time of happiness and hope. Year after year I listen to people as they talk about what they plan to do to make this year better than the last. The gym is filled with new faces, as people pour in, promising to live a healthier lifestyle. New goals are set, projects are planned, and promises are made. When I think about it, New Years ...
Celebrating after Suicide
Celebrating after suicide is difficult as we are reminded of our devastating loss. We get caught up telling the story of their death, limiting the time we spend talking about and celebrating the life they lived. Anniversaries, holidays, and birthdays become difficult as we are reminded that our loved one will not be present. On my own journey, I have found it easier to celebrate on these days. It reminds me of the life my father lived, and ...
Holiday Wishes from Becky and Jessica
Feeling Thankful after a Life Tragedy
It’s difficult to imagine that survivors of suicide could feel “thankful” after experiencing such a major life tragedy, but, today, we would like to wish all of you a very Happy Thanksgiving. It’s true, survivors have to dig a little deeper to reach those emotions, but the fact is, there are still many things we can be grateful for. We can still experience feelings of thanks amidst sorrow.
We can relish in the memories, photos and videos of ...