Christmas is a time when families get together, when celebrations are held and memories made. But it is also a time when the loss of family members and friends can be felt far more acutely. Twenty-one years ago today, I lost my beloved father-in-law, Ed Elsner. This is an article I wrote about learning to come to grips with loss at Christmas time. If you are coping with grief, may it help comfort you in the face of your loss. And may it remind all of us for the reason why Christmas is so necessary.