The article discusses how grief is not about moving on but about carrying forward the love and lessons learned from those we’ve lost. It emphasizes sharing memories as a way to strengthen relationships and foster healing. Living memorials, which celebrate a person while they are still alive, are highlighted as tools to honor loved ones and express appreciation. The author reflects on a recent celebration of a mentor’s life, illustrating how communal memory sharing serves as a living memorial, enriching connections and preserving legacies.
One of the cruelest outcomes of the 'put it all behind you' philosophy of managing loss is that we miss out on the gifts and life lessons that come through remembering.
Sharing memories strengthens relationships, fosters healing, and keeps the presence of those we've lost alive. It is a testament to the enduring impact of loved ones.
Living memorials are a powerful tool to honor loved ones while they are still here, ensuring they feel all the love and appreciation during their lives.
What we celebrants created was a kind of memorial; as we shared our memories with Harriet, we made a 'living memorial,' which reinforces the importance of remembrance.
Collection
[
|
...
]