Bereavement, whether expected or sudden, is one of the most difficult and distressing experiences to comprehend. Whether it is a close relative or friend, or somebody you do not know quite as well, the succession of feelings that follow can vary enormously for each individual.
A progression from the initial shock and stunned feelings, are often quickly succeeded by the need to inform friends and relatives and the practical arrangements of the funeral and gathering afterwards. This in itself can be distressing, exhausting, and very upsetting. Some people choose to visit their loved one before the funeral or memorial service, which may help in some way towards acceptance of the reality of what has happened. The turmoil of events leading to the funeral, can often transpire into the realisation of finality. It is usually following the funeral that most people start to grieve properly. A wide spectrum of emotions can range from anger, guilt, yearning, relief, sadness and depression.
Different communities and religions deal with death very differently, in both the grieving process and perception of an after life. Some believe in a continuous cycle of life, heaven and reincarnation. Others see death as final, the end of life. Some believe in a fixed period of mourning, for others this can be a process which takes years, or even lasts a lifetime.
It is during this period of time, however long that may last , that comfort, understanding and often practical help from friends and family is often needed. It may be some people mourn silently, others may wish to talk about their feelings and emotions.
Bereavement for most people is something that affects their life at some time or another. As time moves on, thinking about the future can be another hurdle which can host another range of emotions, such as guilt or loneliness.
The upset of bereavement is often founded not only from the loss, but timeless treasured memories, which you may wish to keep in a special place. The memories you keep in your mind are always special and often the most important, but in time you may fear these will fade. People usually decide to keep things sentimental to them as a reminder of their loved one. Where to keep these can be a difficult decision and may change over time.
A bereavement memory box can be the perfect place to keep some of your special memories. Whilst you may wish to display photographs of your loved one, there will be other treasured memories or belongings you wish to keep in a more private, personal place. Throughout the grieving process, you can spend time in the comfort that your treasured memories are placed in a beautifully designed memory box, entirely of your personal choice.
Deciding what to keep in the box is a very personal choice and depends on what is important to each individual. For babies or children this may be photographs, hospital bracelets, first curls and teeth, cards or special gifts they received, a little favourite outfit, or simply just a letter you wrote to them to explain your feelings and grief. For partners, husbands and wives, it may be photographs, anniversary cards and gifts, letters, jewellery, or wedding mementos, It could also be just something personal of theirs, such as a favourite CD, hat or watch. Similarly for parents or special friends it may be photographs, memories of a special place you visited, cards or gifts.
The bereavement memory box you choose can be personalised and chosen from a range of materials and colours. You may decide a picture frame beneath the lid is perfect for a special photograph, or indeed a picture of your loved one on the box itself. Sometimes there are no words, no explanation, a memory box is a special place to keep special memories, not only in your heart, but there throughout your life.
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