This is the season of joy, love, and light; and, a time to celebrate with friends and families. But it is also a time when beings – humans and pets – often choose to leave.

Whether due to failing health and feeling it’s time to go rest and let God take them, or due to seemingly hopeless despair and departing through their own hand, this season can be a challenge due to loss and grief.

I know of two men that made their transition during this past week, one an elderly gentleman, the other a 35 year-old dad of two young sons. I had the honor of attending a memorial service for my friend’s 81 year-old father, and I was so struck by the theme of celebrating this man’s life. Yes, no doubt grief was in the mix despite Fred’s advanced age, but it was clearly about celebrate, celebrate, celebrate! Stories were told, music was played, photographs displayed, poems recited, and yes, even laughter and joy about “a long life well lived.” With a legacy left behind in the form of offspring, projects accomplished, etc. this man lives on here on the earth plane and his spirit lives forever.

I don’t know that the memorial service of my other friend’s son’s life will be as joyful although I hope it is. There will perhaps be greater grief at a life cut short by Greg himself, and much pondering about the big “Why?” and if anyone could have done anything to change the outcome. Still, his family and loved ones can choose to focus on the life he did live and celebrate him, the people he touched, the sons he brought forth. My prayers are with them all. This man lives on here on the earth plane and his spirit lives forever.

I never met Fred or Greg… God bless them both.

Yes, this is a season of joy, love, and light. Let’s celebrate it and the people dear to us no matter where they are.