Losing a loved one is never easy. While grieving is something that inevitably takes time, finding a way to preserve that person’s memory can ease some of the pain you are feeling and help you move through the coping process in a more positive, productive way. A memorial can serve as a physical symbol of the love you still feel and provide a lasting legacy for friends and family to hold onto. If you are looking for a way to honor a loved one who has passed, here are a few ideas that might be worth considering.
Cremation Jewelry
Cremation jewelry is a great way to carry a little piece of your loved one with you everywhere you go and keep them forever close to your heart. There are options for just about every style and preference, from silver and crystal to glass and even wood. You can also choose from beads and pendants to rings, bracelets, necklaces and more. There’s even a way to infuse a loved one’s ashes into a real diamond. Best of all, it only takes a small amount of cremains, and cremation jewelry is great way to create a stunning, lasting memory that can be passed down for generations.
Memorial Art
Another creative and unique way to honor the beautiful life of a loved one and keep part of their personality alive is to turn their cremains into a work of art. Whether it be a glass sculpture infused with ashes, an eye-catching ornament, a tree of life memorial or a handmade keepsake urn, you’re sure to find the perfect piece to capture the individuality of the one who has passed. There’s even a way to turn cremation ashes into a shot glass or guitar pick. The possibilities are virtually endless.
Memory Pillow
One of the most difficult things to do after a loved one has passed away is to part with their personal belongings. Having a keepsake pillow made from a piece of their clothing, like their favorite shirt, is a wonderful way to preserve their memory and can become a precious symbol of comfort for those left behind. Rather than disposing of a recently deceased friend or family member’s clothes, why not re-purpose some items into comforting mementos for the bereaved? You can either make one yourself (here are some instructions to get you started) or you can have one professionally made.
Remembrance Tree
Planting a tree is another great way to honor the legacy of a loved one and can serve as a welcome reminder that life, indeed, goes on. This is especially beneficial for mourners who are in need of some hope and inspiration. Just as the tree itself grows and becomes stronger, so does the resilience of those who are grieving. Not only does a remembrance tree serve as a physical symbol of the deceased’s life, but it’s also a great way to make a positive impact on our environment.
Bereavement Quilt
Bereavement or memorial quilts are a powerful way to create a sense of connection and comfort following the death of a loved one. There are a number of different ways to approach a project like this. For instance, you could incorporate photos, quotes or sayings of the person being remembered, or you might include pieces of their clothing, like t-shirts. Some people use bereavement quilts to create a family heirloom by incorporating keepsake fabric from important events in the decedent’s life, such as wedding clothing.
It’s never easy getting over the death of a loved one. Finding a way to commemorate his or her life and keep those memories alive can help with the healing process. The five ideas listed above provide some creative ways to honor those who have passed while creating a lasting legacy that will bring peace and comfort for many years to come.
