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CHRISTMAS is here and as I said last week, the town looks incredible.
I love this time of year and I am looking forward to spending it at home with my entire family, the first time in thirteen years that we are all together I was chatting to a friend of mine last night and although he is one of the biggest lovers of Christmas I know, he is dreading it this year.
He has had a very tough year losing two members of his family, first his mother and then his brother. His eyes were filled with tears as he told me of the horrible empty feeling he has in his heart. It got me thinking about all of the people who really wish that Christmas was over.
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Death is horrible at any time but I think that the feelings of loneliness are exacerbated at this time of year.
The empty place at the dinner table will act as a constant reminder of those who once sat there, the favourite Christmas song will bring tears as the words will now carry a new meaning, the excited faces of children showing off their Santa gifts will bring an ache to the heart as they would have been showing them to the lost family member too.
We take such things for granted and it is only when I saw the grief in my friend’s eyes that I realize how lucky I am. Sure I have had my own heartache in my life but I know that I am blessed that I have never experienced real loss. Death has not knocked on my door.
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I will remember this when I am getting narky about the noise of the toys from my nieces or nephew or the argument about what to watch on television. I will thank god that at least we are there and we are alive to enjoy the celebrations.
When I am nursing a tender head after one too many glasses of vino from the night before I will be thankful that I am alive to feel the dreaded headache brought on by the hangover.
I will pause and have a moment to remember those who have lost loved ones throughout the year and on Christmas morning I will light a candle for those who didn’t make it to Christmas 2015.
To those who have been unfortunate enough to lose a parent, a grandparent, a sibling, a child or a friend, I wish you a peaceful time over the Christmas period. I hope that you find solace with your families and friends and that you get through this difficult time.
To those of us who haven’t, spare a thought for those whose hearts will be breaking and who will struggle to keep it together. Cherish the time you have with your loved ones as it is a luxury not everyone has.
Happy Christmas to you all and thank you for reading my column each week!
Until next week,
Stay safe!
Orlagh xx
