Graceful Goodbyes

To all those feeling griefy. I see you. I feel you and I am here if you need me.

While many are hanging tinsel and checking their lists, singing Christmas carols and making merry… others are struggling with grief during the holidays. Be aware. Pay attention. Listen. Hold space for those experiencing grief.

Know that inviting someone to Christmas, when they are experiencing grief, means you are inviting their grief as well. Don’t expect merriment. Invite them with the loving intention of offering companionship during the holiday season with a spirit of “come as you are”. Whether it’s the first or the 51st Christmas without their person, they will appreciate your loving intention.

Today is . We are committed to supporting people who are grieving and to improve in our communities. MyGrief.ca, KidsGrief.ca & YouthGrief.ca are there to help.

The first Sunday of May marks international Bereaved Mother’s Day. This day honours those who have lost a child, no matter the cause.

Thinking of all bereaved mothers today, and always.

Sending gentle holiday wishes to you and yours, whether here in flesh or in spirit.

Be kind to yourself and gentle with others, as not all holidays are happy.

Do what feels right, light a candle, say a prayer or hold space for lost loved ones and their families this holiday season.

https://www.lionsroar.com/the-life-changing-practice-of-death-awareness/?utm_content=buffere30d8&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com%2Flionsroarbuddhism&utm_campaign=buffer&fbclid=IwAR1a-DcJkCJ7ERT4atmAV70yByONd8KPu478a7s8IAQfT_oPMi9g1S2K6v4

The Life-Changing Practice of Death Awareness Chris Pacheco, Lion’s Roar’s Associate AV Editor, on why you might take up the Buddhist practice of maranasati, or mindfulness of death — even if you really, really don’t want to.

As a death doula I find inspiration and comfort in the Day of the Dead (Dia De Los Mu***os). It is almost hard to believe that such a colorful, celebratory and unifying day could be part of a death ritual. In Mexico, from October 31 - November 2, cemeteries and homes become a tapestry of colour, food and music as families gather to remember, celebrate and honour their dearly departed. This unique grieving experience helps prolong the relationship with the deceased and having a specific day when the loved ones are nearby to listen offers the opportunity to say all that was left unsaid. Dia De Los Mu***os is a day of mindful remembrance and storytelling laced with a celebration of all that life has given. A perfect balance, in my opinion.

Today, in honour of this ritual, my family and I will be sharing stories of our lost loved ones and encouraging them on their journey through the afterlife.

Day of the Dead (Dia De Los Mu***os) Day of the Dead is a celebratory holiday to remember the dead. Explore the vibrant traditions, tasty dishes, and everything that brings this day to life!

How do you bring memories of your lost loved ones into the present and future?

"Through thought and memories, we continue our bonds with those we love and have forever lost. Some people focus on a sign or signal of a loved one’s presence, such as the blooming of an orchid on the anniversary of a death, or a hummingbird fluttering at the window. Others privately communicate with departed loved ones through fantasies, prayers, rituals, holy objects, or conversations."

Grief: Why We Have an Ongoing Relationship With the Deceased Thoughts and memories help us find ways to continue bonds with those we love.