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Holidays, Family, and Finding Peace: A 3-Part Guide, Part 3

Holidays, Family, and Finding Peace: A 3-Part Guide, Part 3

Last updated on: December 20, 2024 at 9:56 pm by Dr. Teresa A. Smith, AKA Dr. TAS

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Holidays, Family, and Finding Peace: A 3-Part Guide, Part 3 2024-12-20T21:56:35-05:00 Dr. Teresa A. Smith, AKA Dr. TAS

LOGO Patheos Explore the world's faith through different perspectives on religion and spirituality! Patheos has the views of the prevalent religions and spiritualities of the world.

This is the final article in our 3-part series, “Holidays, Family, and Finding Peace.” If you missed the earlier articles, read Part 1 here and Part 2 here.

Part 3: Finding Joy After Loss During the Holidays

A Peaceful Winter Landscape Picture

Credit: Canva

The holidays can feel especially difficult when you’re grieving the loss of a loved one. Grief doesn’t follow a timeline, but you can honor your feelings and find moments of joy. By keeping their memory alive in meaningful ways, you can rediscover hope and peace this season.

Acknowledging Grief as Part of the Journey

It’s okay to feel both sadness and joy during the holidays.
Balancing grief with new memories can help you heal.

Honoring Loved Ones and Managing Grief During the Holidays

Ideas for keeping their memory alive:
- Cook their favorite dish and share stories about them.
- Create new traditions, like lighting a candle or donating to a cause in their name.
  
  Credit: Canva

Finding Support and Connection During the Holidays

Connect with others through:
- Church groups, friends, or online communities.
- Holiday events that bring you comfort and connection.

Rediscovering Joy Through Gratitude

Focus on blessings, even in small moments.
Journaling or writing letters of thanks can bring healing and perspective.

Credit: Canva

Scripture for Comfort and Strength

Reflect on comforting verses like:
- “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18 NIV)
- Let these words remind you that God is near, even in grief.

What traditions have you created to honor a loved one during the holidays? Share your story below!

For Resources or Assistance Contact

If you’re looking for support, guidance, or assistance during this holiday season, connect with our trusted experts:

Felicia Kelly Brookins
- Mental Health Advocate
- Book Author Felicia Brookins
Mrs. Tenyeka Pringle-Gibson
- Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor and Founder of TP Gibson LLC
- TP Gibson Wellness
Dr. Shonda M. Sessoms
- Mental Health Therapist
- Sessoms Therapeutic Counseling and Consulting Services LLC

These professionals are here to help with mental health challenges, emotional triggers, and navigating family dynamics during the holidays and beyond. Don’t hesitate to reach out for the support you deserve.

Part 3: Go back and explore: Part 1 and Part 2 of the “Holidays, Family, and Finding Peace” series.

Progressive Christian

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About Dr. Teresa A. Smith, aka Dr. TAS

Dr. Teresa A. Smith (Dr. TAS) is a professor, best-selling author, certified counselor, and empowerment speaker whose mission is to help people heal, grow, and thrive through faith. As host of Talk With TAS and Transform With TAS, she shares unfiltered conversations, soul-nourishing strategies, and practical tools for overcoming adversity, burnout, and life transitions. She is also a Contributing Writer for Conversations Magazine, where she shares stories of healing, resilience, and purpose. Through her books, shows, writing, and speaking, Dr. TAS empowers individuals and communities to rise strong and live boldly in their God-given purpose. You can read more about the author here.

Previous Post

December 20, 2024

Holidays, Family, and Finding Peace: A 3-Part Guide, Part 2