Grief tends to be the predominant emotion when a loved one is lost, and it can feel difficult to reflect on the positive memories you hold. After their funeral service has passed, and you find yourself with some time with your thoughts, the healing power of these memories will help you honor the beauty of life and keep your fond recollections close to your heart. Although the grieving process is highly individualized, and each person must work through it at their own pace, here are a few tactics to keep in mind for focusing on the special times shared with your loved one.

How to Embrace Happy Memories When You’ve Lost Someone

1. Create a Scrapbook

Nowadays, many of our memories live online on social media. But having something physical to remind you of treasured moments can be comforting. The process of selecting photos, letters, ticket stubs, or any other memorabilia can also give you an opportunity to reflect on each unique experience. If a scrapbook seems too daunting right now, consider starting out with just a single page or shadow box.

2. Revisit Their Favorite Things

From a beloved movie or album to a favorite book, poem, or recipe, your loved one has likely left behind their favorite hobbies and collections. Take the time to enjoy some of these, allowing memories to come back and remind you of the person during some of their happiest moments. Revisiting these experiences on your own may allow you to see, taste, and hear them as your loved one did. 

3. Spend Time With Their Friends

While you likely saw many faces at your loved one’s funeral, including their closest friends, it may have been too emotionally challenging to engage in deep conversations. After logistics have been handled, their funeral has passed, and you have some downtime, consider calling or visiting their old friends. You may hear some stories for the first time or even discover details from a well-loved anecdote when hearing it from a new perspective.

The compassionate team from Johnson Funeral Home & Monuments in Monroe County, AL, knows grief can be devastating, which is why their kind and patient funeral directors are available to walk you through every step of the planning process in the event of a loss. They also offer preplanning for individuals who have specific memorial arrangements in mind. Find additional grief resources by visiting their website or call (251) 575-3222 to speak with a director.