The loss of a spouse or loved one is among the most life-changing experiences people can have, according to research. And even though grief is understandably difficult, there are ways channel that grief into appreciation and remembrance of those who have departed.
If you’re looking for closure after loss, try one of these five ways to remember a loved one.
1. Write Them a Letter
You may have already written some memorial messages for your loved one, such as for a funeral service or to create an obituary. But have you tried writing a message to your loved one?
Writing a letter to the person you miss can help you express and process your feelings.
Then, after writing your letter you can try imagining what response your loved one would give you.
2. Name a Star After Them
You may have heard of services that allow you to name stars in the sky after loved ones. And you can do this for someone who is no longer with us too.
Choose a star and give it the name of your choosing (in this case, the name of your loved one). Then, that name is entered in a registry of star names, where it can’t be changed or renamed by anyone else.
You can even receive a certificate to remind you of the star and your loved one’s memory.
3. Create a Shrine or Memorial Garden
A memorial table or shrine in your home can be a lovely way to gather photos and other memorial items for your loved one. This is also a perfect spot for cremation urns, if you have them. Then, you can visit the table any time you want to remember or talk to them.
If you have a green thumb, you can also try starting a memorial garden in your loved one’s name. This could be in your backyard, a shared community space, or a favorite family gathering spot.
Planting flowers and tending to greenery can be a soothing way to memorialize your family member or friend.
4. Visit Their Favorite Places
Where did your loved one enjoy going, and what places brought them the most happiness? Relive their favorite memories while visiting their go-to restaurants, parks, and other places.
For some, this can help you feel closer to your loved one, as if you’re retracing their steps and experiencing what they used to experience in their life.
5. Create a Scrapbook
Gather photos, letters, and other keepsakes to create a scrapbook for your loved one.
This scrapbook could be a real, book-type scrapbook, or it could be a digital version that can be easily shared with family.
A scrapbook can be a creative way to organize photos of your loved one to look back on whenever you’d like.
Try These Ways to Remember a Loved One
Channeling some grief into a letter, scrapbook, or other ways to remember a loved one can help you process your emotions while honoring the person you lost.
Try one of these five ideas, either alone or with others, to help bring some closure during this difficult time.
For more advice during life’s changes, read our latest articles on success!
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