With Thanksgiving unofficially marking the beginning of the holiday season, it can also serve as the first reminder of something missing for those who have lost a loved one. Whether the loss occurred in the past year or the past ten, holidays tend to be when we feel the absence of loved ones most. Today’s blog will explore a few ways you can honor your loved one this Thanksgiving and continue to include them in your traditions.
Save them a seat
When you’re setting the Thanksgiving table, consider leaving an open seat for your loved one. You may choose to include something personal in the place setting to honor them, such as their favorite cup, or may you place a special napkin over the plate for them. This empty seat can serve as a reminder that something is missing, but it will still be surrounded by the love of the family who continue to carry on their legacy.
Cook their favorite recipe
Even if it isn’t the traditional fare, you might consider adding their favorite dish to the menu. Food often evokes great emotion and can open the door to the sharing of wonderful memories about your loved one. If they have a favorite version of the recipe, consider preparing it as they would have. This shared experience can be healing and bring forth wonderful conversation.
Offer a special toast or prayer
Choose a specific moment during the day to gather everyone for a toast or special prayer. You can write the words yourself or choose to draw inspiration from other sources. Taking this time acknowledge the loss will give you a chance to talk about your loved one in a positive and uplifting way, providing a moment of peace during the difficult time without them.
Create a memorial table
Invite your family and friends to bring pictures or mementoes of the loved ones they have lost and set them up on a memorial table. This space can hold memories of those loved ones who have passed, and allow for a place to have a quite moment. You can encourage everyone to share about the loved one they are missing, or the memento they brought.
This Thanksgiving, honoring our loved ones who are no longer with us allows their memory to remain a part of our celebration. Whether through sharing stories, creating new rituals, or simply taking a quiet moment of reflection, honoring loved ones reminds us that their presence continues to shape who we are and how we celebrate. By doing so, we find comfort in the connection that continues to live on in our hearts.
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