Dear Empowered Reader,

The holidays can bring both joy and pain. For those navigating grief—the loss of a loved one or the ending of a meaningful relationship—this season often feels complicated. Grief doesn’t have a timeline, and it can resurface in unexpected ways during moments of togetherness or solitude.

With this holiday treat, I challenge you to grant yourself the grace to feel it all—grief, joy, anger, hope—and to move through it at your own pace. Whether you’re mourning a loved one, a broken relationship, or the family connections you wish were different, your emotions are valid.

Grieving the Loss of a Loved One

The absence of a loved one is often deeply felt during the holidays. Holiday traditions, memories shared, and the empty chair at the table can bring an acute sense of loss and sadness.

Keep in mind that grief doesn’t only come from losing loved ones to death. It also stems from broken relationships, estranged family connections, or cutting ties with people or situations that no longer serve you. These losses can feel even more poignant during the holidays when traditions, gatherings, or memories resurface, reminding you of what’s missing.

Whether this is your first holiday without them or the grief has lingered for years, the season can be a tender reminder of their absence.

To navigate grieving the loss of a loved one, start with what feels "ok" for you. Acknowledge your emotions and begin working from there.

It’s okay to hold space for your grief while also allowing yourself moments of joy. This duality doesn’t mean you’re “over” your pain; it reflects your humanity and resilience.

Here's 4 ways to support yourself and others with grief during the holiday season:

1. Acknowledge Their Presence in Spirit:

   Include them in your holiday in a way that feels meaningful. This could be in the form of holding pictures of them or a favorite memento they once cherished. Reminisce over their presence and enjoy the memories.

   
   

2. Create a New Tradition:

Loss can shift the way we celebrate. Consider starting a new tradition that honors their memory while helping you move forward. This could be something such as lighting a candle in their honor or volunteering in their name.

3. Allow Space for Your Emotions:

   Some moments will feel heavy, and that’s okay. Allow yourself to cry, to feel nostalgic, or to be quiet. Grief comes in waves and it’s important to honor those emotions rather than suppress them.

   
   

4. Reach Out for Support:

   Grieving alone can intensify the pain. Share your feelings with trusted loved ones or a grief support group. Connection can provide solace and remind you that you’re never alone.

Grieving Silently & Supporting Others

Many of us have been taught to suppress emotions and “stay strong” for others. This strength is often celebrated but can leave little room for vulnerability. Grieving silently, whether out of fear of judgment or a desire to avoid burdening others, can deepen the sense of isolation.

It’s important to remember that you don’t have to carry this weight alone. You deserve space to process your emotions, even if it means challenging the expectations placed on you. Grief is deeply personal, and there’s no “right” way to navigate it.

Grieving doesn’t have to be a solitary journey. Whether it’s leaning on friends, attending a support group, or connecting with a therapist, sharing your experience can provide comfort and validation.

Finding spaces where you can grieve without judgment is particularly important. Community allows you to honor your humanity, process your pain, and rediscover your strength. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness—it’s a courageous step toward healing.

Remember: You are worthy of love, peace, and healing. And even amidst the pain, you have the strength to create moments of light and joy for yourself.

Thank you for taking the time to read and reflect with me. I hope your holiday season is filled support from your tribe of loved ones during this period of grief.

With love and care❤️

Jennifer Nicole

P.S. This letter is your reminder that grieving is a natural part of life and you should allow yourself the time and space to do so.

Let's Stay Connected

If this post resonated with you, I’d love for you to stay connected!

Visit my websites, Perfectly Imperfect and EmpowerHer Society, for more insights, resources, and updates on how we can navigate this journey together.

Let’s stay in touch on social media, too! Follow me on Instagram at @empowerhersociety and @sheisjennifernicole, or connect with me on LinkedIn at Jennifer Nicole Brown.

Resources for Navigating Grief

*Disclaimer: The resources mentioned in this post are shared because I believe they could be helpful and have personally found them of interest. I am affiliated with Perfectly Imperfect Counseling Services as the founder and a therapist and EmpowerHer Society as its creator and facilitator, and I share it as part of my mission to support women of color in their journey toward self-love, empowerment, and balance. For all other resources, I am not affiliated and do not receive compensation for sharing them. These resources are provided solely for informational purposes to support your personal growth and well-being. I encourage you to explore them and determine if they align with your needs.