The holiday season always comes with numerous news stories intended to help bereaved people take care of themselves during a time that can be difficult for anyone who has lost a loved one. The advice below -- from renowned bereavement expert Kenneth Doka -- stands out for its wisdom, clarity, and usefulness.
During a grief therapy session Doka was facilitating with several widows,
One woman whose husband recently died asked, "Who should sit at the head of the table?" taking her husband's place. [Doka] asked the group how they had handled it. One woman placed her youngest grandchild there to remind the family of its continuity. Another said her eldest son sat there. Another woman said that she sat there since she was now the family leader.
Which response was right? "They all were. Each response met the needs of the person, and each was a comfortable choice," explained Doka.
This is the key to coping with the holidays: Find the way that is right for you.
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