Your Turkey Is Not Alone - Supporting Others In A Time Of Loss

This time of year, the holidays, can be hard in so many flippin' ways. Sure, there are those that thrive. Those that love every ounce of what this season is, what it means, the light and love, and so much more. There are also those that don't. I myself fall into that category.

And that's where we talk about the other side. The side that feels pressure, anxiety, depression. The side where January 2nd can't come soon enough and every day between now and then can be a struggle. If you're in that half, also know you are not alone. And tomorrow needs you. And January 2nd needs you.

Where ever you fall on that spectrum, be kind. If you're having a hard day and someone is brighter than the mother Mary herself, allow that. Embrace it the best you can and don't dull their shine. And if you're fa-la-la'ing your way through each and every day, understand that the person next to you might be holding on with all their might to fight the darkness.

It's a team effort, the holidays...

We received a message last night about Thanksgiving.

The message read: "This is the first Thanksgiving without my father. In my whole life, I have always relied on him to cook the main meal, so this is my first time cooking a turkey for everyone. While I believe I'm going to end up feeling fulfilled, I'm absolutely terrified of messing it up."

My first thought there is that this goes a bit deeper than just a turkey. And that's okay. The next thought was that "brother, you are not alone, we got this though"....

Then the real thought though, the one that matters most is the reality if it all.

Going through the Holidays, especially the first round after losing a loved one. So many things to share but this is not the time so those links are below.

For you man, I can imagine how this Thanksgiving must feel different and challenging for you without your father there. I can't begin to know where your mind truly is, what your emotions truly feel like because that's such a different place for every individual.

What I can begin to say is that it’s so special, that you’re stepping up to carry on his tradition—it’s such a beautiful way to honor his memory.

It’s completely natural to feel nervous about it; even the most seasoned cooks (including your dad, I bet!) probably had moments of doubt about pulling off the big meal.

What’s amazing is that Thanksgiving is less about perfection and more about love, effort, and the people gathered around the table. The fact that you’re taking this on speaks volumes about your strength and the love you have for your family.

Whether the turkey turns out exactly as planned or not, everyone will see and feel how much you care—and that’s what truly matters.

You’ve got this, and I’m sure your dad would be incredibly proud of you. If you find yourself needing help or a little reassurance while cooking, just remember, you’re not alone—almost everyone has a little ‘turkey terror’ on Thanksgiving.

Lean into the process, enjoy the moments, and know that this meal will be a beautiful reflection of you and the memories you’re creating. And hey, don't forget, your turkey is not alone and we can all be here supporting others in a time of loss.

Our posts supporting others in a time of loss

How to honor the memories of those we love.

https://the-303-collective.beehiiv.com/p/honoring-memories

Grief and the changing process

https://seekadventure.beehiiv.com/p/it-changes-and-that-s-okay