The Holidays are right around the corner and we'll soon be busier than ever getting ready. In the midst of all that preparing don't forget about that elderly loved one - your mom or dad who may now be alone, or that neighbor who recently lost their spouse.

The holidays can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, isolation and loss. I was reminded of this as I talked to my Mom just the other day sharing plans for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

She will join my family for Thanksgiving but didn't share my enthusiasm. For mom, it's a bittersweet time of the year with memories of my dad who passed away five years ago and the holidays we shared as a family.

Her tears were hard to take but I acknowledged her feelings. Her emotions aren't wrong. We talked some more until we both shared a laugh about a favorite memory. It helped her prepare for the upcoming season and ease her anxieties.

I'm grateful for a lot of things in life, especially for the parents who took time to teach me to care - to feel compassion and empathy for others. I will never forget!