Creative Ways to Remember Your Loved One

Grief is unpredictable and we each respond to loss in our own unique way. 

There is no right or wrong when it comes to expressing grief, or regarding how long it takes before we begin to heal. But one day, you may feel inspired to create a positive memory and do something significant to remember the person who passed. When the time is right for you, here are some creative ways to memorialize your loved one and bring a bit of him or her back into your daily life:

Light a candle. Something as simple as lighting a candle can be a powerful way to remember your loved one, especially when others are involved. People have long held candlelight vigils for someone who has passed away, but today, a new type of candlelight remembrance is gaining popularity. In the age of the Internet, it’s easier than ever to coordinate with friends and family worldwide to schedule a group memorial candle lighting. Choose a birthday, anniversary, or other meaningful date and time to honor your deceased love one and light candles with your friends and family, at the same time, regardless of where they’re located. You may choose to repeat the candle lightings on the same date every year, or to schedule vigils on different dates. It’s an easily customizable way to remember someone and to include others who loved him, too.

Have an annual day of celebration. Cultures around the world take a day every year to commemorate the people they’ve lost.  In many Latin American countries, for example, their celebration is called ‘Day of the Dead’ (Día de Muertos) and is held annually on November 2nd.  Different countries and religions all worldwide have similar days when they honor and remember the dearly departed. You may want to create a special day each year where friends and family of your loved one assemble to remember him or her. You can play their favorite music, eat their favorite foods, recall fond memories, and celebrate the time you spent with them.

Make a quilt. Memory quilts are a wonderful way to capture cherished memories by using photographs of or clothing worn by your loved one. If you’re an excellent seamstress, you might consider constructing the memory quilt yourself. Given the levels of intricacy and expertise required, you may prefer to enlist the help of one of  many companies that can assist you with designing and fabricating the perfect quilt.

Honor them in your own special way. Remembering your loved one needn’t be a grand affair or involve lots of people. You could cook their favorite meal---the taste and aroma are sure to bring back fond memories. Consider reading their favorite books or volunteering for a cause they supported. Wearing their favorite accessory or piece of jewelry can also help you feel close to your loved one. Even something as simple as singing their favorite song can be uplifting.

It’s important to realize there is no one “right way” to remember your loved one. Perhaps the best way you can honor them is by living your life in a way that would make them proud. Enjoy life and be happy. It's what they would have wanted for you.