“There is no underestimating how important ritual is for loved ones,” explains Barbara J Hopkinson. “Having memorials, releasing balloons (as shown on the video) or butterflies, or just bringing flowers to the grave.
There are no rules here; just do whatever works best for you and your family or what you think your child in spirit would like. No need for a memorial event to be elaborate or expensive; just something meaningful to you.
I even brought my son’s favorite ice cream sandwich flavor to his grave and let it melt there while I shared my lunch with him on his birthday. Whatever makes you feel good and more connected, or what honors them — is what counts.
This is something I’ve definitely witnessed from you and other people dear to me who have gone throughh this devastating kind of loss – but never thought about it in a focused way. I’ll endeavor to be even more focused on recognizing and participating in important dates and ceremonies going forward.