Holiday Bill of Rights Offers Choices to Bereaved

Hot cup of liquid on a counter with fireplace in the background

Holiday Bill of Rights Offers Choices to Bereaved

By Tanya Lord, SADOD Director

They’re here, no matter how much we might wish they weren’t. The holidays, I mean. While everyone else seems to be looking forward to celebrations, observances and gatherings, many are adjusting to the fact that this holiday will be quite different from those in the past. Invitations begin to arrive, but those who have lost a loved one are not in the mood. Oftentimes, a well-meaning friend or colleague will try to coax someone into attending the festivities and “forgetting about that (grief) for a while.” Anyone who is grieving will tell you this is not possible.

I created the holiday Bill of Rights with the hope that people would print it and hang it on the refrigerator, or take a photo of so you can refer to it by phone. It is exactly the prescription and permission your heart needs to decide whether you want to participate at any given moment. You might even want to share this with friends and family. 

Whatever you decide, do what is best for you, and take time to remember your loved one in your own way.