Christmas Message 2019

Christmas is a wonderful occasion...but equally, it can be a very tough day for many in the community.

To everyone who is so very much looking forward to Christmas, I wish you a wonderful day. I would also like to acknowledge everyone who has experienced loss in 2019, or in years gone by, as Christmas can be an extremely challenging day. My parents have both been dead for 20 years now and Christmas is still not the same without them. I enjoy Christmas, I am just saying it is no longer the same as it once was, and their loss is still very much felt, so don’t let anyone tell you that you should have moved on. To anyone facing their first Christmas or a Christmas that you are not at all looking forward to, with an empty chair or chairs around the Christmas table, I encourage you to do what is best for you on Christmas day.

We have prepared a helpful outline on some things that may assist you in getting through this Christmas period, and you can find it here.

To those of you with family or friends who have experienced loss this year, or in recent years, be mindful of them. Reach out to them and acknowledge their loss. Invite them to share Christmas with you, invite them to drop in for a drink, drop into their place for a cup of tea or cook them a meal, ask them to join you in watching Christmas Eve Carols...more often than not people who have experienced loss are likely to decline the offer but to know that you care and that you are there for them will mean the world to them. Give them a call or send them a text on Christmas day just to say "G’day I hope you are doing alright, I hope you are getting through the day okay".

Without a doubt the most difficult occasions following the death of a loved one are the first Christmas the first birthday, the first mother’s day, the first father’s day, the first of everything that you once experienced with your loved one who is now gone. These occasions are tough and while it does get somewhat easier, as I said earlier it is still different.

On Christmas Day this year, Tobin Brothers are sponsoring a show on 3AW 693 from 4pm to 6pm called Mindful. This year our primary focus is on those who are on their own or choose to be on their own on Christmas day.

Furthermore, from 6pm to midnight on RSN 927 the Family Counsellor Fr Gerard Dowling will be doing a 6 hour show interacting with all Melbournians and Victorians by phone and bringing comfort to those who are alone this Christmas. So be sure to tune in.

Please remember too that there are counsellors available 24 hours a day 7 days a week at Lifeline who can be contacted by phoning 13 11 14.

For all in the community, I hope that Christmas can be the best it possibly can be in your circumstances, for you and for your family. To one and all Merry Christmas

James MacLeod

Managing Director, Tobin Brothers Funerals