The Empty Chair: Handling Grief on Holidays and Special Occasions

Losing a loved one whether a spouse, parent, child, sibling, or friend leaves people feeling overwhelmed and hopeless. Holidays and other special occasions seem to intensify the pain. Whether the occasion is Christmas or Easter, a birthday or anniversary, these celebrations force the bereaved to again face the reality of a loved one's absence. Susan Zonnebelt Smeenge and Robert C. De Vries know first hand the sorrow of bereavement: Both lost a spouse. Yet as they faced their pain and gleaned insights from their professions Susan is a psychologist, Robert, a minister they found renewed richness on special days that once brought heartache. In The Empty Chair, the authors share a comforting blend of emotional support, spiritual guidance, and personal experience to help readers honor their loved one on important days. Those who support the bereaved mental health professionals, pastors, funeral home staff, and others will also appreciate this book for its reflective yet practical approach.