12/11/2025
For many people, the first year after a loss is the most disorienting—especially during the holidays. It can feel like… • Every tradition reminds you of what’s missing • You’re living in two realities at once (“this can’t be real” vs. “this is my life now”) • You’ll never feel okay again None of that means you’re stuck or broken. It means your mind and body are doing the hard work of learning a world where your person isn’t physically here. That kind of learning takes time. You’re allowed to change traditions, skip events, or build brand-new rituals this year. You’re also allowed to keep some things the same because that feels comforting. If this is your first holiday season without someone you love, please know: intense pain right now is normal. You don’t have to rush your heart.