When we lose people we love, we may decide to honour their memory, celebrate their life, their passions and interests. Here are a few suggestions of ways to honour and remember a loved one:
- A dedicated photograph album or Memory Box – make a special memory box containing photographs, handwritten letters or cards, favourite poems, books, words to a song, a small item belonging to the loved one. Write a letter to them on special occasions or when you are missing them.
- Create a Memory Jar where you and others can write down favourite memories shared with your loved one.
- Plant a flower or a tree dedicated to their memory. You can purchase a tree or plant from a number of stores online for this purpose, or you can simply sow some seeds in a special place, in a garden or even a pot if you don’t have access to an outdoor space.
- A plaque on a bench or in a special place – some Councils, parks and gardens will allow memorial plaques on benches, in honour of a loved one. Fees will vary, so please check directly with your local authority.
- A Celebration to honour your loved one and share memories. This can be a picnic, a gathering of family and/or friends to share memories of a lost loved one and to make new memories to honour their lives.
- Ashes can be made into jewellery or artwork. The clothing of a loved one can be made into textiles such as cushions, blankets or a cuddly toy.
- Dedicating a star to a loved one.
The following information provided by The Good Grief Trust provides ideas on how to preserve memories and create lasting mementoes: things to consider
