Another Holiday is Looming: Easter

~ by Cherie Houston

Well, it's April 1st and another holiday is looming before us - Easter.. And when you child or children have died, thoughts of past Celebrations, including Easter and all the new outfits, chocolate bunnies, jelly beans, Easter baskets, Easter egg hunts and of course family gatherings can be very difficult.

And as we well know, it is commonly very difficult for those who have not been touched by the death of a child to understand the depth of despair that such a loss brings to our families. Yes, many can’t and don’t understand that the stress of holidays and special “dates” for those of us who are “mourning” including the moms, dads, siblings and grandparents, well that “mourning” and remembrance can feel overwhelming whether the loss was months or years ago."

But as we ponder the holiday ahead - some of us will remember our child during past holidays, and some of us will ponder our hopes for memories that were never to be for those children who died before memories could be made - but I'm hoping that maybe - thoughts of the true meaning of Easter can help each of us on this journey from mourning to joy during the Easter Holiday season ahead…

It seems to me that all the traditions of Easter reflect the belief that this is a time of celebration. Celebration of the resurrection, celebration of the rebirth, celebration and a salute to spring and yes, celebration of the coming to life again…

Yes, we may celebrate this holiday a little differently according to our beliefs and religious denominations, but for me to it helps to think that my precious children are totally at peace and happy at home in heaven... reborn again, just like the tulips, daffodils and easter lilies that appear after the long cold winter... reborn and blooming more beautiful than ever...

So many of us believe that the true meaning of Easter for all Christians, is to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Since we were small, isn't that what most of us were taught? That once our journey on earth is finished – no matter how short or long that journey might be, that we will each rise again and have eternal rest and peace at home in heaven – reunited with those who have gone before us and our heavenly father…

So, until then, I hope you and yours can find peace and joy this Easter season.