Headstone Alternatives

July 5th, 2018
Headstone Alternatives

Headstone Alternatives

When you choose natural burial, opt for cremation instead of burial, do not have a body to grieve, or simply do not want the heavy look of a traditional headstone, you may want to consider gravestone alternatives. Although most people today choose a small, rectangular headstone that makes a cemetery look neat and tidy, it used to be common for headstones of all shapes, sizes, and varieties to crop up. Choosing something unique and personalized can be a great way to not only celebrate your loved one, but to stand out in a way that means a lot to the those who share your grief. (more…)

Movies to Help Kids Deal with Grief

July 1st, 2018
Movies to Help Kids Deal with Grief

Movies to Help Kids Deal with Grief

Death can be especially difficult on young children, since they do not always understand the long-term implications of loss or have good coping skills for their grief. Counseling can help, as well as a good support network at home, but it might also be worthwhile to look into movies you can rent and watch at home. (more…)

International Funeral Etiquette

June 27th, 2018
International Funeral Etiquette

International Funeral Etiquette

If you travel a lot for work, have family overseas, live as an expat, or are abroad when a death occurs, you might find yourself invited to a funeral in another country (or for someone of a different culture). This can be an intimidating prospect, since different countries have different outlooks on death and dying. Their funerals may be loud and celebratory and open to all. They might be small, private affairs that outsiders are not welcome to attend. Funeral flowers might be expected, or they might be considered an insult. Unless you have a lot of knowledge about a country or culture, you have no way of knowing about their rituals. (more…)

Meals to Make for a Grieving Family

June 27th, 2018
Meals to Make for a Grieving Family

Meals to Make for a Grieving Family

Food and death have long gone hand-in-hand. Although few people think about food when dealing with things like death, funeral plans, and grief, it is an important part of moving forward. Meals still need to be prepared and served for the whole family, and remembering to eat regularly is a good way to ensure self-care during such a difficult time. (more…)

Government Services When a Loved One Dies

June 22nd, 2018
Government Services When a Loved One Dies

Government Services When a Loved One Dies

When you lose an immediate family member (spouse, parent, or child), it is likely that your entire life is going to undergo a change. Not only will there be an emotional struggle, but you may find that your entire means of financial support is gone. Depending on your situation and your loved one’s occupation, you may be entitled to government bereavement support services. (more…)

Poetry to Read at a Funeral

June 18th, 2018
Poetry to Read at a Funeral

Poetry to Read at a Funeral

Public speaking at a funeral is a common practice, especially if the service will be formal or held in a church. However, if you are not the kind of person who can write a eulogy, or you are not quite up to the task of opening your heart and sharing personal memories of the past, you may want to read a funeral poem instead. By relying on the words of some of the world’s great writers, you can tap into your feelings without being burdened by the idea of having to come up with your own. (more…)

To Tweet or Not to Tweet? Social Media Etiquette after a Death

June 13th, 2018
To Tweet or Not to Tweet? Social Media Etiquette after a Death

To Tweet or Not to Tweet? Social Media Etiquette after a Death

For most of us, social media is where much of our lives take place. We connect with old friends and make plans with current ones. We share photos of our partners, spouses, kids, and pets. We discuss politics and religion. (more…)

Gifts for the Anniversary of a Death

June 8th, 2018
Gifts for the Anniversary of a Death

Gifts for the Anniversary of a Death

Most people recognize the importance of sending flowers, a gift basket, or a condolence card when a loved one dies. This small gesture helps the family know they are not alone during their difficult time, and also helps you move forward with your own grief. (more…)

Funeral Etiquette: How to Pay a Condolence Visit

June 4th, 2018
Funeral Etiquette: How to Pay a Condolence Visit

Funeral Etiquette: How to Pay a Condolence Visit

When a family member or friend experiences a loss, it is common to pay them a visit to show your love and support. This meeting, often known as a condolence visit, is not a required part of the funeral process, but it can help your loved one feel less alone during this difficult time. (more…)

Helping Kids Deal with Mass Shooting Grief

May 30th, 2018
Helping Kids Deal with Mass Shooting Grief

Helping Kids Deal with Mass Shooting Grief

When it comes to the tragedy of school shootings, one thing everyone agrees on is this: kids are the ones who suffer the most. It does not matter if they were physically present at the time of the shooting or if they personally knew one of the victims—simply being a school-aged child in this day and age can cause high levels of anxiety and grief. (more…)