How to Honor Someone Who Has Died

A Beautiful Ocean Sunset

We all know people who die. Sometimes they are close relatives like a sister or brother. Perhaps a spouse or parent. The first year after they are gone can be very difficult for the survivors. When the first anniversary of their death gets closer on the calendar, it's time to make a plan for that day to celebrate that person's life in a special way. Some ideas may include planting a tree in their memory, or honoring them by enjoying some of the deceased person's favorite activities or food. The list is endless. Here are some ideas and ways one can honor someone who has died, a year later.

Things You'll Need

• Some quiet time to think and reflect
• Paper and pen

Instructions

1. Get your calendar out and mark the anniversary of your friend or relative's death on it.
   Do this a couple of months before and begin thinking about having a plan for the day.

2. Mention or talk about the upcoming anniversary to a close friend or relative and let them know it's going to be a difficult time for you. We often fear what has not happened, but talking about it can take some of the worry out of it.

3. Start making a list of things your loved one liked to do. Jot them down on paper with a pen. It can help you visual your plan. Go to the movies, take a hike, sing a song, etc. Start thinking about how you would like to honor them. Give your time to someone in need, donate hair to Locks for Love cancer patients, visit a long time friend. Enjoy a walk on the beach and a beautiful sunset.

4. Launch a balloon with a message to your loved one. Bake some cookies for a neighbor.
   Light a candle, say a prayer, clean a closet, donate some items to their favorite charity.
   Write a letter to them and tell them you miss them. Cook and prepare a special recipe of theirs. You get the idea. It doesn't have to be hard, or cost any money. Take the time to remember how much you loved them. There are so many ways to honor a loved one on the anniversary of their death.

Tips & Warnings

• What goes around, comes around. Showing love to someone comes back 10 fold.

• You may still have some sad moments, no matter how prepared you are. Expect it. You will feel better after a good cry.

Resources

• Anne Z on the Web