The CantmIre Post

Gwen Dudley had been dreading the holiday season since the death of her partner, Fox. She knew that the empty chair at the dining table signified a huge absence in her life that would be painfully stark during this time of year. Gwen had always loved the holidays - decorating the house with festive decorations, exchanging gifts and spending time with family and friends. But now, she found it difficult to even think about these traditions without feeling a deep sadness.

One day while out shopping for Christmas presents, Gwen noticed a woman struggling to hold back tears as she looked at holiday decorations. She approached the woman and asked if she was ok. The woman told her that her husband had recently passed away and that it was their first Christmas without him. Gwen took her hand in hers and shared her own story of grief after losing Fox.

As they talked, Gwen began to realize how important it was for people who have experienced loss to be able to talk about their grief openly and honestly during the holidays instead of pretending everything is alright or ignoring their pain. She encouraged those who are struggling to reach out to their friends and family members so they can support each other through the difficult times.

Gwen left the store feeling lighter than when she entered it. She realized that although nothing could take away her pain or bring Fox back, by sharing her story with another person in need she had made an impact on someone else’s life—and that felt good.

The following year, Gwen continued this tradition by reaching out to others in similar situations during the holidays and offering them support and understanding throughout their grief journey.