I created a PRESERVE once, just after a family member's death for a couple of reasons.
Not necessarily to REMEMBER or to the MEMORY of this person - after all, their life would be well remembered through those still living and from a pretty good collection of pictures and writings. But, more as a TRIBUTE to her earthly life, and as a TRIBUTE to her unexpected passing because for this particular person, much good came from her death, as did from her life.
Is this possible? Can any good come as a result of the death of a well beloved person?
The simple truth is, YES. If those left behind are willing to allow the Lord to show them that good.
For at the time of her death, there was an outpouring of Spirit that touched the hearts of all of those she knew and many more people whom she did not know.
Mostly because of the way she conducted her life, and then because of the way her death was handled.
She was killed.
Words that describe the reaction to the events that took her life are: great understanding, humility, integrity, and forgiveness.
Not all lives are ended in a tragic manner, but all lives end.
As much as those left behind wish that loved ones wouldn't have to leave for any reason, the fact that we all eventually do is as much a part of our lives as the staying.
Regardless of the circumstances revolving around one's passing - it all can be taken as an experience that can refine.
Through the conscious effort, exercise or practice of seeing the Lord's hand in it, and the fact that a return to the Lord is the result can help the healing.
The life well lived deserves a PRESERVE fittingly put together by one who might be able to see the good that can come from a passing and sharing it.
Items I included in this PRESERVE:
- Programs from Memorial service
- Programs from the funeral
- Pictures taken during the entire event - be sure to include all family and close friends
Note ** taking a picture of the open casket is an interesting view of just the earthly home for the loved
one's spirit without it there - a happy reminder that our real selves move on after we are done here
to await reunions with other loved ones and eventually our bodies.
- Sympathy cards
- Newspaper articles / obituaries
- Your journal about the details, your feelings, any positive insights.
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Love to you Cindy, on your Birthday. After reading your posting on Death as a Part of Life, I realize how blessed we are to know what we do and have the perspective we have.
ReplyDeleteI also am very blessed to have lived my life with siblings, parents, children, and friends WHO KNOW what they know is true and live it, teach it, and share it.
So glad you were one of my great sisters. I love you and yours. Great Mom, Great Family.
Love, Your Dale