As the holiday season draws near, balancing celebration with remembrance of lost loved ones can be a delicate journey. According to Kelsi Mathews of In Memoriam, acknowledging and honoring our grief is an essential part of keeping loved ones close in heart and spirit. Here, Kelsi shares several meaningful ways to create lasting tributes during this emotional season.
One powerful way to honor a loved one is through acts of kindness, like donating to a cherished charity or volunteering together as a family. “Putting tangible energy into your grief can create meaning and comfort during the holiday season,” Kelsi says. Additionally, gifting a sentimental item that once belonged to the departed can bring an extra sense of connection in a time filled with commercial messages.
Setting a place at the dinner table or incorporating a loved one's favorite flower can also offer gentle reminders of their presence. “Having an empty chair acknowledges that even though they’re gone, they’re not forgotten,” Kelsi explains. Taking a moment of silence for them before the festivities begin can give families a quiet space for reflection.
For families experiencing heightened grief, Kelsi advises, “Recognize the big space that grief takes up, and don’t pressure yourself to feel ‘okay.’” Embracing traditions in new ways, such as visiting a favorite spot or sharing stories, can add layers of warmth and healing.
Ultimately, Kelsi reminds us that the holidays are a season where joy and sadness can coexist. Creating space for both celebration and remembrance allows families to honor their loved ones with openness, grace, and support.