How Can I Make a Small Altar for My Grandma Here at Home?
Altars have been used in public and private places for as long as recorded history. They provide a sacred place to worship as well as a place to honor and remember loved ones. By collecting and displaying items such as photographs and letters that reflect the person being remembered, the ritual of creating an altar can be one way of honoring the life of another person. Each altar is a unique expression of the person being remembered.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Collect photos and items that make you think of your Grandma. The time spent gathering these items can be part of the ritual of creating the altar. Take time with each item to remember the story behind it and the connection to your grandmother.
-
2
Clear a flat place for the altar. Make sure it is large enough to accommodate the items you've collected, as well as a burning candle without creating a fire hazard. Pick some place that can be used for an extended amount of time and that won't be disturbed. There is no right or wrong place for an altar.
-
-
3
Arrange the photo and the items in the place you cleared. Follow your intuition; there is no right or wrong way to arrange the items. Set the candle in a safe spot.
-
4
Connect to the altar in whatever way feels right for you. This can include reciting a poem or a prayer or reading a letter you've written to your Grandma. Light the candle and take a moment to be fully present with the memory of your Grandma.
-
5
Maintain the altar for as long as you feel is necessary. Keep it free from clutter and dust. Add or remove items if you feel this is right. When you are ready, take the altar down one item at a time. Either store the altar items in a box or move them to other locations. Sometimes dispersing the items throughout your house feels better than storing them in a box.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Altars provide a physical and emotional place to be fully present with your memories of your loved one. Each action, if done with your full attention, is part of the altar.
