The holiday season is in full swing—a time that can feel especially heavy for those who are grieving. The world around us is seemingly bursting with cheer, but for many, the season brings reminders of past traditions lost, empty seats at the table, and the ache of missing someone we love.
Amid all the festive joy, it can feel like there’s little room to talk about our grief—or more importantly, the people we’re missing.
But here, we can create that space.
Let’s talk about them. Let’s say their names. Let’s share how we honor their presence in our lives, even if they’re no longer physically here.
Who are you honoring this season? What do you want us to know about them? Please share with us in the comments below.
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Isaac Julian Ryan-McKinnon. Ineffable Isaac. My sunny Sonny. My beautiful boy. He had the best laugh and sense of humor. He could make friends with anyone anywhere anytime. Dogs and children flocked to him. He was like a human magnet. He loved candy despite my protestations. He loved LOVE, the Detroit Tigers and pizza. He always wanted to help others and went out of his way to do so— his heart compelled him to do so. When he was little he would suggest we shovel peoples driveways or if we saw wildflowers growing somewhere on a hike, he would say we should pick them for so and so who was sick/sad/celebrating. He lived for Christmas! He loved making gifts for everyone. I haven’t had a tree or done anything “right” for the holidays since he left. I just couldn’t. This is the 10th year without him and I have been thinking about a sweet little tree this year! I’ve never even considered it, but this year it occurred to me how sad Isaac would be to know that I just get into the fetal position every holiday season! So, we’ll see.
Mike O’Keefe. He was my funny, charming husband, my song and dance man of 37 years. At the Thanksgiving table I extended my gratitude to his parents, Eugene and Mary Ellen, who were like second parents to me, especially his mom. They began an incredible legacy of love and connection when they brought their ten children to this world. My kids and I are blessed to be a part of that big web! Mike’s been gone 4+ years now, and I’m so grateful for the time we had together and the family we brought to life.
Ronny, my funny, kind, full of love for our family husband. My safe haven, the one person who saw me and loved me anyway. He has been gone for 8 years and I miss him every day. I honor him by loving as he did.
My beautiful son, Malcolm Kessler Hall - he would be 22 this year. I honor him by using his name every time I order coffee. I love hearing the barista say "Malcolm." Sometimes I pretend that i didn't hear so they have to say his name again. I miss him so much! He is always loved.
Isaac Julian Ryan-McKinnon. Ineffable Isaac. My sunny Sonny. My beautiful boy. He had the best laugh and sense of humor. He could make friends with anyone anywhere anytime. Dogs and children flocked to him. He was like a human magnet. He loved candy despite my protestations. He loved LOVE, the Detroit Tigers and pizza. He always wanted to help others and went out of his way to do so— his heart compelled him to do so. When he was little he would suggest we shovel peoples driveways or if we saw wildflowers growing somewhere on a hike, he would say we should pick them for so and so who was sick/sad/celebrating. He lived for Christmas! He loved making gifts for everyone. I haven’t had a tree or done anything “right” for the holidays since he left. I just couldn’t. This is the 10th year without him and I have been thinking about a sweet little tree this year! I’ve never even considered it, but this year it occurred to me how sad Isaac would be to know that I just get into the fetal position every holiday season! So, we’ll see.
"The human magnet" - he sounds like the most amazing person. I love getting to know Isaac through your eyes.
Keep me posted if you decide on a tree ❤️
Dennis, a kind husband. Gone 4.5 years. So very missed.
Thank you for sharing ❤️❤️❤️
Mike O’Keefe. He was my funny, charming husband, my song and dance man of 37 years. At the Thanksgiving table I extended my gratitude to his parents, Eugene and Mary Ellen, who were like second parents to me, especially his mom. They began an incredible legacy of love and connection when they brought their ten children to this world. My kids and I are blessed to be a part of that big web! Mike’s been gone 4+ years now, and I’m so grateful for the time we had together and the family we brought to life.
What a gift to be connected to that big family of his!
Ronny, my funny, kind, full of love for our family husband. My safe haven, the one person who saw me and loved me anyway. He has been gone for 8 years and I miss him every day. I honor him by loving as he did.
The most beautiful way to honor him, Sally!
Thank you Dana.
My beautiful son, Malcolm Kessler Hall - he would be 22 this year. I honor him by using his name every time I order coffee. I love hearing the barista say "Malcolm." Sometimes I pretend that i didn't hear so they have to say his name again. I miss him so much! He is always loved.