Learning From Loss: A Christmas Miracle
A Christmas Miracle
Legacy and Impact
Over the last few weeks, I have been made aware of many great lives that have now passed on into eternity with Jesus. In particular, there are two that stand out as I write - Larry Katz, and Mike Shaffer. I did not Larry at all, but many people who I know knew him well and were spiritually impacted by him. After he passed suddenly in a car accident, I saw at least ten posts on social media from people impacted by his legacy of faith. The other, Mike Shaffer, was the loving father of childhood friends from church. He too left a legacy of life, faith, and love. He worked hard to provide for his family and was passionate about teaching the Word Of God.
The legacy of both of these men reminds me of the greatest love of all - the love of Jesus, which we all can share equally, not just in December, but all year long!
Grief During the Holidays
For many, the Christmas season is a time of joy, family, and celebration. Yet, for those who are grieving, it can feel like a stark reminder of what has been lost. Whether it's the absence of a loved one, a significant life change, or a personal hardship, the holidays can amplify feelings of sorrow. However, the true meaning of Christmas offers a powerful lens through which to navigate grief—a lens of hope, renewal, and unconditional love. This connection between loss and the transformative spirit of Christmas is a key focus of our seminar, Learning From Loss.
Letting Go of Guilt and Embracing Forgiveness
Grief often comes with a heavy burden of guilt—guilt over things left unsaid, actions left undone. One of the core teachings of Learning From Loss is the importance of letting go of guilt and embracing self-forgiveness; or possibly forgiving the loss of a damaged relationship. In the context of Christmas, this message resonates deeply. The season invites us to reflect on forgiveness and grace, themes central to the Christmas story itself. As we let go of guilt, we create space for the peace and love that Christmas embodies.
Staying Present and Finding New Beginnings
Another profound insight from the seminar is the importance of staying present while coming to terms with the past. The Christmas story is one of new beginnings, of light breaking into darkness. It encourages us to focus on the moments we have now and the future we can build together. By anchoring ourselves in the present, we honor our loved ones and experiences not by dwelling in pain but by living in ways that reflect their positive influence on us.
The photo above are of a “Thank You” card from my grandmother Evelyn.
It reads, "Dear John, Many thanks for serving as a pallbearer for Grandpa. It was a blessing to him to have you there and your kindness means a lot to me." Love, Grandma D.
She wrote me this note after I had been a pallbearer at my grandfather “Bud” Dittenhafer’s funeral. That was 20 years ago, in 2002. Four years later, she too passed on after a life well lived. I came across the note while getting out Christmas decorations… The handwriting is the spitting image of my mom Peggy’s handwriting. Between the topic of the note, the author, and the immediate connection between multiple generations of family, a flood of emotion washed over me. Grief. Loss. Legacy. Gratitude. Joy...
Gratitude and Respect, Anchors and Bouys
My grandfather was a man I grew up wanting to be like. Even though he was somewhat distant in my younger years, as I became a young adult I took notice to the legacy of service to others he (and my grandmother) were leaving - and to the worthy pursuit of the same in my own life. I took notice of how special it was to benefit from my own loving parents, both of which were working overtime to ensure I grew up in a loving home surrounded by sound morals to learn and grow from. Sure, things sometimes went awry, but nothing unexpected; certainly nothing less valuable than the example of love and care I had the privilege of experiencing. My grandfather was an anchor, and my mother and father were life buoys of support and connection to the same (this remains true today). Regardless of relation, we all have anchors and buoys in our lives. Who are yours? Tell us about in the comments, or on our social media channels.
Becoming a Beacon of Positivity and Hope
Finally, Christmas reminds us of the power of positivity and inspiration. Just as the seminar teaches us to grow stronger and inspire others through our resilience, the Christmas season calls us to be a light for those around us. By embodying hope and love, even in the face of loss, we heal ourselves and uplift those who share in our journey. Grief and Christmas may seem like unlikely companions, but together they remind us of the profound strength in embracing loss, finding meaning, and creating a legacy of hope.
If you've been touched by loss and are seeking insights into how what you are going through can benefit you and others, be sure to check out "Learning From Loss," with Dave Romeo, at Romeo Network Online Learning.
"Grief is the price we pay for love." - Queen Elizabeth II
This excerpt is taken from the seminar, “Personal Growth III: Learning from Loss.” I encourage you to
click here to view this topic on demand.
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