Page 46 - LIN DEC WEB

Not All Gifts of the Season Are Wrapped With a Bow

by Karen Coney Coplin

he month of December dawns upon Those distant historical markers are the foundational anchors to
us, signaling one final fresh start at the many families during the holiday season.
Tend of the year. It holds the promise Taking a glance at the December calendar, we quickly see that
of miracles beyond measure, together with the there is reason for hopeful anticipation. But, first - we need to get
welcome prospect of beginning anew as the through the next 31 days. That is not always an easy challenge. This
calendar turns over to 2022. season is often the toughest for those who have weathered a loss of
It is a month (really, like all others) holding any sort.
the prospect of adventure, gatherings, reflection, If it is the loss of a loved one, the grief journey may seem as
and much joy. Of course, there is always the possibility of a though it is cast upon a treacherous road, with certain memories as
counterweight. Perhaps more than ever in recent times. landmines. This is especially true if the loss is recent.
For a moment here, though, let us recall an ancient age in With some 60,000+ COVID-19 deaths in Florida alone, it is
which there was only enough lamp oil to burn one night, and still, likely that a reader or a friend of a reader will know someone lost
it continued to burn for eight nights. For many, the light shining to this illness or another cause. Let me join those offering peaceful
within was echoed by the external triumph of an enduring flame. and caring condolences to our readers experiencing the loss of a
And, too, another long ago event: the arrival of a prince in loved one.
perhaps the most humble of settings; his birth on a bedding of It may seem nearly impossible to believe, but, for those
hay in a stable, "away in a manger, no crib for a bed." Other kings confronting a recent loss, a time eventually will come in which
traveled long distances amid harsh conditions to welcome and this pain is felt less keenly. It doesn't change the absence; it merely
honor his arrival. allows for the acceptance of a new way of life without a certain
person by your side.
This season offers fertile ground to tap into vivid holiday
memories. Take a moment to think about loved ones now
departed. Remember these wonderful people gathered alongside
you, joyful and alive.
The summoned memories can be recent or distant. In either
instance, the recollections can be searing, regardless of placement
in time. Please be gentle with yourself. Finding a steady footing
and healing takes time. Sometimes, a lot of time. Everyone's grief
journey is unique.
Within your circle of family and friends, hopefully, too, you
can recall many happy times and this will make you smile despite
feeling sad in other moments.
We all need hope. Here, a toast to times ahead in which
you, and, indeed, all of us, can gather in celebration with loving
family and friends to exchange gifts. Noting, of course, the most
meaningful gifts of the season may be found within our hearts,
hands and head. Be open to receiving these as presented.

Karen Coney Coplin can be reached at Napleskcc@gmail.com to share
"Bells Ringing in Towers, New Year's Eve in Venice." Artist: the late
Bob Kane; estate represented locally by Harmon-Meek Gallery. an idea for a future article or a comment. On Instagram, follow her
adventures about Life in Naples: @Naplesbythenumbers

46 Life in Naples | December 2021