When Queen Elizabeth II passed, a mourning period of ten days was observed. Although we understand that this period is a sentiment or formality, grief may consume you longer than that. Some would say an appropriate amount of time to grieve is a couple of weeks, maybe a few months. Some grieve loved ones for years. Birthdays and anniversaries of departed loved ones escort grief to the forefront.
With the holidays approaching, memories of loved ones who have passed on tend to re-surface and produce feelings of despair and loneliness. Holidays can remind us of traditions that have faded with the loss of a grandparent or parent. Thanksgiving gatherings and Christmas celebrations may become different or obsolete as generations pass.
My grandmother, the only grandparent I knew, passed away in 2002. I helped her get dressed for church. I fondly think of her on Sunday mornings as tears fall. Even though I miss her, it brings me comfort to know that she is in her heavenly home. I treasure the times: teaching me how to cook, sternly mouthing in church ‘Praise the Lord!’, curling her hair, and handing her water with tons of ice in her Mason glass jar.
"So that He sets on high those who are lowly, And He lifts to safety those who mourn." Job 5:11 AMP
We must also remember that mourning is good. Grief allows intimacy with God. It is through this connection with Him that we find comfort and strength to grieve in a healthy way. When we draw to God, we can put our trust in Him that He will wipe our tears away.
"Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted." Matthew 5:4 AMP
Encourage your family to keep holiday traditions alive. Create new holiday traditions for generations. On the birthday of a departed loved one, create a new, happy tradition that somehow honors and celebrates life.
There is no prescribed time to mourn or an appropriate way to grieve. There is no end date for grief. Yet, we need to understand that there is a healthy way to grieve. Continuing normal activities and passions, maintaining close relationships with family and friends, and acknowledging the heavenly reunion with loved ones that have passed on are healthy approaches.
"A time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance." Ecclesiastes 3:4 AMP