The months of November and December are filled with opportunities to celebrate. Hopefully, we are all still feeling the warm glow of grateful hearts and delicious family recipes from Thanksgiving. Ahead of us, we have Hannukah, Christmas, the winter solstice, Mawlid al-Nabi, Zarathosht Diso, Rohatsu (Bodhi Day) just to name a few of the many religious holidays that are celebrated in the wonderful tapestry of faith that surrounds us in our community.

The holiday season brings so many things to mind. For some of us, it brings back cherished memories of family time and spiritual and religious observances which fill us with light and inspiration for the living of our days.

At the same time, some of us are dealing with a recent or still painful loss of a dear one and the holidays cause us to feel their absence even more acutely.

Then for those of us with young children or grandchildren, it is often a time of anticipation with the lighting of candles, the twinkling of tree lights and giving of gifts.

For still others, the holiday season may hold difficult memories of family struggles which cast a shadow on the season and leave us with heavy hearts.

Just as we honor each religious holiday and observance, we also want to be mindful of the various emotional landscapes that those around us are navigating during this time. Whatever this holiday season means to you, may you find grace and peace, meaning and hope now and in the promise of the New Year.

For our hospice patients and families – please know that your Spiritual Care Coordinators are here for you. To celebrate with you, to grieve with you, and to be that listening ear and supportive presence.

Happy Holidays, everyone!

Jim