To everything (turn, turn, turn)
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time to every purpose, under heaven
A time to be born, a time to die
A time to plant, a time to reap
A time to kill, a time to heal
A time to laugh, a time to weep
– The Byrds, “Turn, Turn, Turn”

Time, the one resource we all get in the same amount and in the same turn. Regardless of our social status, or economic status, our age; it matters not. The only choice we have is how we spend it.

As the holiday season nears, we focus on the good times. We look forward to family, friends, good memories and times together. But for some, try as they might to focus on the good times this holiday season, there is no choice but to experience the hurt and pain of grief and loss.

Now some of you may think that as a funeral director, I am always talking about death. The truth is, however, that the grief of loss can come from many sources: a job, a relationship, financial hardship, family tensions, even the thought of personal failure when we don’t feel good enough about ourselves.

This season, as we are blessed to make the choice of focusing on the good times, let’s not just take a moment to keep in thought those who grieve. Let’s all take the next step and do something to help because sometimes knowing that someone else is using the gift of their time to simply help you in yours can make all the difference in the world.

To everything there is a season.

Remember to take time to care, share and help and you just may find a new source of joy as you live, laugh and love.