As the fifth Christmas without my husband approaches, I have moments of excitement, my son helps with that, but then, I feel flat again…
Trying new things has kept me going over the past four years. At the end of October, I joined an online Creative Writing Workshop, hosted by Matthew and Suzie. On Monday the 12th of December we got to meet face-to-face for the first time, I’m fairly new to the group, but others have been attending since the course began around 18 months ago. It was lovely to be able to share each other’s work and being around others with the same interests has been inspiring.
When my poem was read out to an audience, I received understanding and compassionate comments. I was overwhelmed that others could resonate, and the subject of how we don’t share our grief enough, was discussed. I would like to share the poem here and if anyone can resonate, feel free to comment. Whether it be your first Christmas, second, third, tenth or twentieth without your loved one, on this page, I encourage you, to express your grief.
Fifth Christmas
Your shopping sprees
Too much turkey for three
An extravagant tree
did fill us with glee
You loved your Christmas Rituals
They brought so much cheer
Your tawdry decorations
and a fridge full of beer
You would put yourself
to the bottom of the list
Making sure everyone else
was seen to first
But now the boxes of decorations
without your strong arms to help
are much heavier than they used to be
Each Christmas passing
has been as difficult as the first
Your childlike excitement
is missed just as much
The lights bright and twinkling
make the eyes blear
The yearn for excitement
that once was felt dear
Your presence is a photo
hanging from the tree
Christmas has been quieter
once a family of three
Fifth Christmas without you
Thought this would get easier
In memory of you
we will make this one jollier.
I will share the link below of the e-book that other members of the group have contributed to. It’s a good read.
https://culturenl.co.uk/arts/creative-writing/virtual-voices/
The Creative Writing Workshop begins again on the 30th of January, if you would like to join click:
https://culturenl.co.uk/arts/creative-writing/
Try something new. (Even if that means resting or taking a break).
Merry Christmas
I wish you posted more often Laura, you write so beautifully. I am so sorry I missed this one. It was number 4 without my husband.
Xxxx
Your words truly convey the emotions. Everything is so much heavier when dealing with grief. Blessings to you and your son.