One of the ironies in life is that it is often when others are having the most fun that we seem to notice our pain and loss the most.
That is never more commonly felt than during the holiday season and that is why a local grief support group is offering two special holiday grief programs that are free and open to everyone in the community who needs help.
Rev. Jana Baxter who has been leading a GriefShare support group is scheduling two special holiday events.
GriefShare: Surviving the Holidays Events are part of the program that is promoted at www.griefshare.org — for those who want to go on line and learn more about the organization.
Each of the events — which are planned for 7 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 22, and Monday, Dec. 6 at Foundry Methodist Church, 5401 Broadway, will include a 40-minute video presentation and there will be booklets available to help participants follow along.
Everyone who is dealing with grief in this holiday season is welcome to attend the sessions, regardless of church affiliation. The sessions are entirely non-demoninational, Baxter stressed.
Baxter, who has a background in psychiatry and counseling, urged those who are facing loss this holiday season to consider attending one of the sessions.
According to information from the organization, “groups meet across the US, Canada, the UK, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa.
“GriefShare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. You don’t have to go through the grieving process alone.
“GriefShare seminars and support groups are led by people who understand what you are going through and want to help. You’ll gain access to valuable GriefShare resources to help you recover from your loss and look forward to rebuilding your life.”
In addition to these two “stand alone” holiday programs, Baxter added there will be another 13-session GriefShare series begin after the first of the year.
It will also meet at 7 p.m. on Mondays, running from Jan. 10 through April 13, at the church.
According to information about these events:
“GriefShare is a special seminar and support group for people grieving the loss of someone close. This group is sponsored by people who understand what you are experiencing and want to offer you comfort and encouragement during this difficult time.
“Each GriefShare session includes a video seminar and group discussion. Each of the 13 sessions is ‘self-contained,’ so you don’t have to attend in sequence. You will find encouragement and help whenever you begin. You will be able to continue with GriefShare through “There is no charge to attend the sessions. Workbooks, which will assist you with note-taking, journaling and grief study, are $15.”
While the events are free, Baxter is asking that those who plan to attend one of the holiday events register by phone, by calling the church office, 793-3327. If there is no answer, please leave a message with a name of those who will attend.