How to Set up a Tradition to Celebrate a Loved One Each Year

The anniversary of a loved one's death or birthday can be an especially difficult time of year. To make this day easier, setting up a tradition to celebrate a love one each year can create a lighter atmosphere where you can remember your friend or family member in happiness instead of sadness.

Things You'll Need

• Pictures of the deceased
• Plans for an activity
• Friends and family
• A significant date

Instructions

1. Choose a date for the annual celebration. Popular days are the deceased's birthday, a special event (like an anniversary), or the anniversary of the deceased's passing.

2. Ask other friends and family members to become involved in the planning of this event.

3. Do something that the deceased would have loved to do. For example, you could plan a trip to the beach to celebrate his or her birthday or watch a certain movie.

4. Keep pictures of the deceased on hand.

5. Mark the day on your calendar every year so that it is not forgotten.

6. Consider making a donation to a memorial fund in the deceased's name every year.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not include people that are hostile towards one another. If you must include them, make sure they understand that this is a day for love and laughter, not fighting.

• If feelings of depression do not subside surrounding this day, seek professional help.