Keep a Place in Your Heart for Memories

The holidays can be bittersweet for those of us who've lost loved ones.  Our memories of them are like treasure boxes that we keep hidden in our hearts, bringing out from time to time to admire. We know that nothing will ever be the same, holiday traditions are forever altered, yet we hold onto what we remember because it is all that we have left. As we move forward in life, everything around us may change, yet the love that we've shared with those who've passed endures forever.

There is pain and sadness intertwined with the happy memories, because the loss of a loved one is a wound that never fully heals; there will always be a scar.  It's important to let go of any regret, guilt or unforgiveness and move on, but the reality is that we will always miss the physical presence of the one who has left. Loss is one of the harsh lessons of life and reminds us to be fully present always, because life is fragile.

Take a moment today to remember those loved ones who have passed; reflect on their contributions to your life and to the lives of others. Honor them by keeping alive traditions that were important to them, or sharing stories about them at family gatherings. Record memories in a journal, or reflect on something that they have written or done (music, favorite recipes, artwork, etc.) and share with others.  Spend time in meditation, focusing on their spirit, which lives on eternally....

  Keep your memories alive and treasure them in your heart.