My oldest sister passed away in October, totally unexpected. She was my best friend, and it has left a hole that is so hard to fill. Actually I don't expect it to fill, it will just get smaller and smaller, but my life as I knew it will never be the same. There's no use to scurry around trying to stay busy and forget it. I have spent time grieving and life goes on. I have plenty in my life to be thankful for. But to many of us who have lost loved ones, Christmas is not just all merry and bright. We must all figure out how to have a happy holiday season while looking at an empty chair.