During this time of year, we all reflect upon our past; our past selves, our memories, and always stumble upon the hard reality that it has been another year without you. It will be another Christmas without you, another New Year. Time is a funny thing, it sneaks up on you and passes by without you noticing. But we, as people, keep a log of our time on earth through pictures, stories, and memories that don't allow anyone to be forgotten.

As another year comes to a close, we all think about the people that have shaped us in some way, have enriched our lives, and if they have passed on, we think about how much we miss them. During the holiday season we miss those that have passed away the most. Everything reminds us of those that are no longer with us, whether it be the empty chair at the table or just memories in general. We want you to know that though you are no longer here, you are never forgotten, and we are always thinking about you. We see you in all of the traditions that we still carry on. We see you in all of the love that is shared between our family. We see you everywhere. We are constantly reminded of you. We miss you, and will always love you.

The holiday season is a time in which families come together. Though this togetherness is filled with a strong sense of love, it is also filled with an overwhelming reminiscence of the past. We all have people that we wish we could see again just one more time, or spend one more holiday with, but we know that is impossible. Instead, we think about all the times we got to spend with that person and feel grateful for the time that they were able to share with us.

Even though people may not be in our lives any longer, it does not mean that their affect on our lives has dwindled, or that we love them any less than when they were. Because this is the time of year that loss most affects everyone, it is also the time of year people are more likely to be thankful and spread more love. As we feel our losses, it becomes more clear that we should celebrate life, and all of the wild emotions that come along with it. We should not spend our lives in sadness, instead we should honor the memory of those we have lost by living life to its fullest. By seeing your family as much as possible. By telling them you love them. By gift giving. By having fun. By creating memories. Time may zoom by, but you have control over your life, and what you will do with it. Live life by experiencing everything; by celebrating every holiday to its fullest and being thankful for the people in your life. It is the holiday season after all, so express that thanks, show the love you share.

To those no longer with us anymore: thank you for the time you gave us, for the love, the traditions, and for teaching us that life can pass by you quickly, so make the most of it.