When someone we love dies, it feels like a part of us goes with them. We are left with an aching hole in our hearts that can be difficult to fill. Grieving is a natural process that allows us to come to terms with our loss and move on. But how do we move on when the person we loved is no longer here?
Grief is a complicated process that can often leave us feeling stuck or trapped. We fear moving on because we worry that we will forget about the person. Letting go and moving on becomes more difficult as time goes by. And every time you catch yourself doing something that makes you happy and allows you to forget, your grief will quickly catch up with you.
There is no one right way to grieve. And there is no time limit on how long it should take. Grieving is a very personal experience and everyone deals with it in their own way. Some people find comfort in traditional methods like attending funerals or writing letters to the deceased. Others find more creative ways to remember their loved ones through the arts. Here are 7 modern ways you could memorialise your loved one after their death.
1. Create a memorial website or blog
One of the best ways to keep your loved one’s memory alive is to create a website or blog dedicated to them. You can use this space to share photos, stories, and memories. You can also write about how much they meant to you and how their loss has affected you. This will help you as your process your grief and could also help others who are going through the grieving process in the future.
2. Make a memory jar
Fill a jar with favourite memories of your loved one. Write down things like inside jokes, happy memories, or shared experiences. You can also add mementoes like photos, ticket stubs, or jewellery. Whenever you’re feeling lonely or missing your loved one, you can open up the jar and relive all of your favourite moments with them.
3. Get a tattoo
Tattoos are a popular way to remember a loved one. They can be as simple as their name or initials. Or you can get something more elaborate that represents them and your relationship. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something that you’ll be happy with for the rest of your life.
4. Decorate their urn
If you choose to cremate your loved one, you can decorate their urn in a way that represents them. This could be something as simple as painting it or adding photos. You can also add special mementoes like their favourite sports team’s logo or a symbol of their faith. These cremation urn decoration ideas will help to get you started.
5. Donate to a cause they cared about
Another way to keep your loved one’s memory alive is to donate to a cause they were passionate about. This could be a charity, an organisation, or even a GoFundMe page. You can also volunteer your time to a cause that was important to them. This will help you to connect with their passions and make a difference in the world.
6. Plant a tree
Planting a tree is a beautiful way to remember someone you love. Trees take years to grow and mature, just like our relationships with the people we love. They also symbolise growth, life, and new beginnings. As the tree grows, so will your memories of your loved one.
7. Ashes Jewellery
Ashes Jewellery is a beautiful and unique way to remember a loved one. It is something that you can wear every day and keep your loved one close to you always. All you need is a small amount of your loved one’s ashes.
8. Host an annual memorial
Hosting a memorial for your loved one is a beautiful way to keep their memory alive. It will also help you to process your grief and begin to move on. There is no right or wrong way to do it.
The most important thing is that you find a way that works for you and that brings you comfort during this difficult time. It could be a fun memorial where you watch their favourite movie, eat their favourite meal, or just share stories with all the people who loved them. You don’t have to make it a solemn occasion, and it’s okay to use the day to bring light and joy into your life.