Holidays from Heaven

Holidays from Heaven

By: Dr. Stephanie Allen-Gobert

Thinking back many years ago, I can recall all the joy the holidays would bring. It wasn't just about the gifts I would receive, but more about the real reason for the season (Jesus Christ), Christmas lights, the smell of Grandma's cooking, family time and games, laughter, and the beautiful decorations all throughout the city and the world.

Thanksgiving always proved to be an amazing time as well. More food, family, fun, laughs, fall colors, friends, games, and, most importantly, reflecting on all the things we have to be thankful for. And the memories from New Year's Eve! … All the parties, beautiful dresses and outfits, the amazing countdowns with cocktails (for some 😊) nationwide, more food, friends gathering, church services, toasting, and kissing a loved one while bringing in the New Year—simply a remarkable time!

As I reflect, mostly around the holiday times of the past, I don't feel that same joy and excitement. It could be from all the cooking and age, but, being transparent, I realize the majority of my loved ones who helped create these memories now share the holiday "cheer" from heaven. I enjoy the laughter my family brings, and I am truly grateful for all the memories we create every year during the holidays. We truly have an amazing time! It's nice to learn new holiday games, teach and see all the new family editions, and just have a funky good time!

But I wanted to write and share something because, maybe like myself, many of you find that the holidays can be good and bad at the same time. Reflecting on all of your loved ones celebrating the holidays in heaven can truly bring on a sense of depression or sadness. A song titled "Silent Night" by the Temptations was one of my grandmother's favorite holiday songs. As much as I love that song, for many years, every time it came on the radio, I would cry and have to change the radio station immediately. Some of the smells I grew up experiencing when walking into many of my family's homes would just make me cry. The loss of a loved one is a tough pill to swallow.

The holidays are not here just yet, but they are around the corner, literally. Decorations are up in just about every store already!

I didn't want to make the article long or depressing. I just wanted to share because I know I am not the only one who has, will, or does feel the sting of death, especially around the holidays. As time passes, I realize it helps heal, but that hurt will always be there. If I can help anyone by stating, "I am pretty sure our ancestors' Holiday in Heaven is off the chain!" I am reassured that I will see them again one day because of My Redeemer.

Please take time to cherish the ones who are still here with you this holiday season! Make fun and lasting memories. Reflect on the ones who started and set family traditions and foundations, and never let their memories die. Talk to someone and, if need be, please seek grief counseling. Share your feelings with someone you trust and who can relate to what you are feeling. One of my favorite scriptures is Proverbs 3:5: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." Whatever you must do to get through your own "Silent Night."

I have gotten better, but I still have my "holi-days" when I just need to cry, and I do. Sometimes, it's not the long cries I used to have, but it's a "get it out" and much-needed cry! I can still find comfort and laugh with one of the most amazing families a girl could be blessed with to be here with me still. I think about my Grandma always saying, "You can pick your nose and flowers, but you can't pick your family!" And through it all, I wouldn't want another family!

Lastly, holidays with loved ones in Heaven can be tough—this I know. But greater is He that is in you than he that is in this world (1 John 4:4). Our loved ones are in the best hands in Heaven. Healing from the loss of a loved one hurts! Take it one holiday at a time, keeping Jesus on your mind! And just like last holiday time and the one before that, we got through—somehow, He will give us the strength to get through this one. Prayer still works!

Happy Holiday in Heaven to the ones we have lost. And happy holidays to all of you (early)!

Dr. Stephanie Allen-Gobert