6. Be aware of negative thinking.
Catch negative thoughts and replace them with thoughts that are positive and true. See Philippians 4:8.
7. Do something for someone else.
There are many opportunities during the holidays to help people. Helping other people reminds us loss is universal and other people are struggling with you. Plus, something about giving fuels positive emotions.
8. Force yourself to participate in social activities.
Obviously, that is more difficult in 2020 – and you may not even feel like it. But social support is critical in recovering from loss. No one benefits by becoming a recluse. Be safe and wise, but find ways to interact with others. Even a phone call to a friend is better than falling further into despair.
9. Avoid the comparison game.
Don’t compare your losses to other people’s losses. Significant loss naturally makes us focus inward, but that never works. And it’s dangerous.
10. In a Time of loss, honor your losses with new traditions.
Begin new rituals that will help you reflect on the good things you experienced prior to your loss or will help you remember happier days to come.
In my Christmas message, I shared one more suggestion – I believe this might be the most powerful of all:
We have to learn to worship in tears.
We must learn to worship even in pain. Many Psalms were written during someone’s painful story. When we realize God is good – even when it doesn’t seem that life is good – we are better equipped to face uncertainty and loss.
Obviously, Christ is the peace of Christmas, and He can fill your brokenness. You can trust Him. This Christmas, let the Christ of Christmas fill the void and provide ways to deal with loss in your heart and life.
This article about Christmas as a time of loss originally appeared here, and is used by permission.
