Happy, jolly, merry, joyous – those are the words that greet us during the holiday season.

But for some, this season brings a renewed struggle with grief, loss and sadness. The days grow short and the nights are longer, and many people feel distressed or depressed as they contemplate a Christmas celebration in the midst of grief, loss, illness, job loss or other struggles.  

We remember happy holidays past that we now face without a loved one, and we feel a sense of loss rather than celebration.  The bright lights, the shopping, the baking, the gathering with family may feel like chores. Our family and friends may want us to cheer up, to move on and be happy.