When tragedy strikes it never lets a person know its coming. But when it does there is nothing better than people coming together to help others grieve and walk through tough journeys together. The death of a loved one is never easy. It always stings and the pain can continue for always. But to help those who are left behind deal with loss and tragedy it is important they celebrate the life that was lost.
Celebrating their loved one can help heal. Here are some helpful hints when celebrating a life lost.
Host A Celebration of Life:
Choose a place to host a life celebration.
Invite all of the family and loved ones who were close to the person who died.
Always have food. Food helps people talk, fellowship, and stay.
Set a positive tone. Have music, light, and a positive atmosphere.
Set out a memorial gift basket where people can write a small note to the family sharing a special memory they have of the loved one.
Allow people to share brief memories of their loved one.
Say a group prayer for all those present.
Set no time limit. Let people grieve and share.
No alcohol. Alcohol can cause people to lose their inhibitions and may ruin or change what needs to be a positive time of healing. Instead have coffee and seven up (that way if kids spill the soda the mess is minimal).
Have photos and special mementos of the one who has died.
What to give a family member who has lost a loved one:
A memorial gift such as a personalized frame with an inspirational message is a wonderful gift.
A memorial gift basket full of snack foods and comfort food.
A book on grieving.
A great memorial gift is a plant-flowers die but plants keep growing and living.
A personalized blanket with the loved ones name and date of birth and death is a comforting gift for those left behind.
An inspirational picture.
A framed poem of encouragement when there has been great loss.
Pam Brown is a writer and contributor for the Grief Resource Center at Planet Gift Baskets, an industry leader in Sympathy Gifts & Sympathy Gift Baskets.