February 29, 2024
“I’ll remember you when I’ve forgotten all the rest…. You to me were true. You to me were the best.”
— Bob Dylan
Many families and many friends who want to recall a loved one who has died will mark a special occasion in their lives, such as a birthday or anniversary, to pay tribute. These are times that can be especially painful when we are grieving, but they can also be observed as a way to keep their memory alive and to provide an opportunity for friends and family to get together and share their grief … along with their fond memories.
Cathy and her entire family recently gathered at a restaurant for a festive celebration on what would have been her father John’s 100th birthday.
Her father, who died 12 years ago, was “a very proud Marine,” so the family and friends sang Irish songs and enjoyed a birthday cake decorated with an American flag. Cathy said the entire family attended the celebration and not one person declined her invitation.
She wanted to bring everyone together to reminisce about her father, share stories and photos, and give her grandchildren the chance to hear about this special man whom they never knew
At the end of the wonderful evening, she felt a deep sense of gratification to know that she had kept his memory alive and shared it with so many young people.
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Look for occasions to celebrate someone you love who has died, and help their memory endure by sharing with others who knew and loved them too.
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