How to Honor Mom on Mother's Day if She is Deceased

Mother's Day can be a difficult day for those of us whose mothers have died. Whether it's been six months or six years since Mom passed away, we have to somehow get through the day ourselves as well as remember and honor Mom's life. Here are some ways of coping with the loss of your mother while honoring her memory on Mother's Day. These are steps I use myself.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. 
    
   A mom is always there for her children.

   1. Relive a special moment you shared with Mom. This could be a day in the park when you were a child or a mother-daughter vacation the two of you took once you reached adulthood. Focus on the sights, sounds and smells of the day. Recall the words the two of you shared, the jokes you chuckled at. This technique is especially helpful if you were an only child and have no siblings with which to share Mother's Day memories.

2. 
    

   2. Buy Mom a gift. What was Mom's favorite flower? Her favorite color? Choose something that would both honor your Mother and bring joy to you. It could be a potted plant or a donation to Mom's favorite charity. Be creative in your thinking.

3. 
    

   3. If comfortable in doing so, visit Mom's grave site or the place where her ashes were scattered. This is the perfect place to lay a wreath or a bouquet of those favorite flowers mentioned in Step 2.

4. 
    

   4. If you are a mother yourself, don't forget Mother's Day is for YOU. For many mothers it is difficult to put oneself first. This is one day of the year for creating memories for both you and your children. Let those kids pamper you and enjoy. Happy Mother's Day!

Tips & Warnings

• The most important tip is to focus on the good memories of your mother.
• If this is your first Mother's Day without Mom, do not spend the day by yourself.

Resources

• The Orphaned Adult
• Grieving the Death of a Mother

[edieness]

on 7/29/2009 Gave it a digg.

[believeinfamily]

on 7/23/2009 5* A friend of mine lost her mother and Mother's Day is always difficult. Thanks for the tips on how to Honor a Deceased Mom on Mothers Day. :)

[kaldrich88]

on 7/23/2009 such an uplifting, beautiful article for such a sad topic. well done! 5*

[mweise]

on 7/23/2009 What great suggestions :) I hope my Mom does not go anytime soon, but when she does, I'll know what to do. 5* and a Digg

[vallain]

on 6/28/2009 I'd add to this, to write down some memories of your mother. It will bring you comfort and be treasured by your own children.