Remembering a Loved One
During the Holidays

Losing someone close to you is a very painful experience. Holidays, anniversaries and other special occasions can intensify that pain, but planning a remembrance or ritual to celebrate your loved one’s life can ease the sorrow of these challenging times and help preserve memories of the affection and life you shared.

The holidays can be particularly difficult for those left behind, but may also offer a unique opportunity to honor your loved one. Placing a special ornament on the tree, setting out a cherished decoration or serving a favorite holiday meal can evoke fond memories. Friends and family may wish to share notes of remembrance placed in a stocking put up for your loved one. A candle might be lit in memory, or perhaps a toast or prayer can be offered in tribute before a meal. Money that would have been spent on a gift could be donated in your loved one’s name to a favorite charity, homeless or animal shelter, or a needy family.

Holidays can be special times to celebrate your loved one. Friends and family may come together to share stories and cherished memories, such as the way they laughed or their favorite stories. Sharing these recollections with younger friends and family members is a wonderful way to honor a loved one who may have passed before the children were old enough to know them. By gathering old photos, you can make a mosaic or a memory album of the times you spent together. Create a calendar from pictures or drawings with poems written to or about them, or simply write a letter to express your feelings.