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 firsthand 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.