How to honour the life of a loved one?

The last weekend turned into devastation for many people that visited London and had a good time out and about. 

My heart goes out to all the families, friends, and colleagues that have lost someone or are caring for a loved one still in hospital. 

You might have heard the story of the young woman from Canada that was hit by the van and then died in her fiancé's arms. 

Her family found a way to honour her that I felt inspiring. Chrissy had worked for years in a homeless shelter and cared deeply for others. Her family asked the public and friends to honour her by doing something good for others. Like donating time, bringing clothing or food to a homeless shelter and telling the staff that “Chrissy sent me”. 

Immediately that sparked an outpouring of support to food banks and homeless shelters all over.

We as people connect to stories of loss and pain. We want to be there for each other. We appreciate when we are given a task or a gesture to honour the person that has died. 

Why do I write about this?

In the midst of our grief we sometimes cannot see that others grief too. It is helpful to tell others what they can do to honour the person that has died. 

I assure you it does not only help them but also you. 

When my mother died I told everyone to bake (or buy) a cake for someone else that could use a little pick-me-up. My mother loved to bake cakes for others. 

The emails and images I got from friends and family that took me up on this request were amazing. It made me cry but at the same time I had the feeling that my mother was really seen and honoured. 

Perhaps there is something you would like to do today, that would honour your loved one? Go do it, even if it feels a bit silly.