In the US, it is customary to hold some form of funeral or memorial service when a loved one passes away. But there are other customs for remembering and humbling those we love throughout the world. For their loved ones, many people now hold celebrations of life, which help to keep the memory of the deceased alive long after the funeral. Continue reading for 5 memorialization ideas for the departed.
- Memorial Release
We don’t know for sure what happens after a person passes away, but many people have discovered that having a memorial release of sorts is cathartic and a wonderful way to remember a loved one who has passed away. The possibilities for what you can release are endless; some individuals choose to release balloons, while others choose to release butterflies or doves. Another choice is to place flowers in a river, float a small raft downriver with tea lights, or use bubbles to catch the breeze. You can even choose to scatter some of the cremated remains inside a released balloon or lantern. Whatever you choose to let go of during this memorial, remember that doing so isn’t just about letting go of something material; it’s also about letting go of your grief. Consider once more allowing yourself to be liberated by joy, as your loved one would wish for you.
- Review Photos
Organize a gathering of friends or family members to go through old pictures or view home movies. Even better, have your group make a DIY scrapbook. If you’re having problems finding photos, you might ask others on social media if they have any of the deceased’s pictures or videos they could send you. Seeing your loved one engaged in something they enjoy while surrounded by you all might serve as a powerful reminder.
- Charity Donation
During the time we knew them, many of our loved ones were fervent about issues that were important to them. Giving to a cause or organization they cared deeply about in their memory is a special way to honor their memory after they pass away. Perhaps this entails requesting everyone to donate the same amount each year or the amount equivalent to their age when they passed away (for instance, $65 for someone who was sixty-five years old). If you are unable to contribute financially to the cause, you may still help out by volunteering your time, which is just as valuable!
- Art
Since ancient times, people have used art as a means of expression. Eulogies are frequently delivered at funerals as a means to pay respect to the deceased, but there are other occasions when words can be used to honor a loved one. Try writing a letter to a loved one as a way to remember them. If you’d prefer to express your views in a different way, you could try composing a poem that is motivated by a feature of their personality or your favorite memory; alternatively, if you enjoy music, you may transform your ideas into a song.
- Body Donation
It is also altruistic if donating your body to science because it aids in the education of future surgeons and doctors and may lead to the discovery of new treatments for various diseases. Some families may not place a high premium on this, but other families find comfort in knowing that they can have a positive influence on future generations. I’d like to give my lungs or cornea. Funeral services are not impacted by organ donation. You can still follow your wishes and have a traditional funeral in addition to being cremated. Find out what will happen to the remains once the institution has used them before you give your body. The family may receive the cremated remains in some circumstances. Other times, nothing is given back. You should consider asking this question well in advance of making your choice if it affects you and your family.