The holidays are typically a time of laughter, love, and closeness with loved ones. But for those grieving a loss, it could bring feelings of sadness and isolation.Dealing with grief can be hard this time of year. The Rev. Donte Jones of Wisdom and Grace United Church of Christ, explains ways you can work through your feelings and still enjoy the holidays."Oftentimes from my experience that comes from loss, whether that's a loss of a loved one through death, through a divorce, or through a separation of someone who's serving," Jones said. Therapist Tom Longenecker of Retreat Behavior Health says grief is typically heavier during this time of year with back-to-back celebrations. "This really turns a much more focus around family gatherings, community gatherings, whereas the summer holidays are much more spread out," Longenecker said. Jones wanted to be of service to those dealing with this heartache. Each year, he hosts a blue Christmas service to support those who are mourning. "We sing songs and recall sacred texts that remind us of the presence of God," Jones said. Longenecker recommends some symbolic things you could do to honor your loved ones. "Light a candle, have pictures, even an empty chair. I think it's important to actually be able to integrate pain because that is a part of life," Longenecker said.Grief has a voice, and Jones says it's OK to not be OK."I think another spiritual practice that people can practice during this time is self-compassion. You know, with all the immense pressure from the media, from friends, and gathers and such. A lot of time, we feel bad about feeling bad," Jones said. Overeating, overindulging in holiday cocktails and shopping too much were said to be unhealthy coping methods by Jones and Longenecker.