All over the world, traditions abound for memorialising and honouring those we love. Beyond the rituals of traditional mourning, it is both healthy and meaningful to find ways to feel connected to our departed loved ones by cherishing the memories of the time spent together. Often, these memories are filled with laughter, joy, and acts of kindness—all elements that can be beautifully woven into the fabric of our commemorations.

Here are a few suggestions:

1. Commission a portrait of them by a renowned artist.
2. Compile and preserve memories by writing them down, collecting stories from others, and placing them in a memory jar.
3. Create a teddy bear, pillow, or memorial quilt from their clothing.
4. Adopt a local park in their name and contribute to its upkeep.
5. Observe a special day of remembrance annually on the anniversary of their passing.
6. Feed the birds in their memory.
7. Complete a significant task they left unfinished.
8. Collaborate with a comic book artist to craft a comic book narrating their life story.
9. Frame a piece of their writing, such as a poem or recipe, turning it into a cherished heirloom.
10. Keep a treasured item of theirs with you.
11. Design jewellery incorporating their handwriting, ashes, or hair.
12. Wear memorial jewellery such as a ring, bracelet, or necklace.
13. Donate holy books in their memory.
14. Assemble and distribute care kits to the homeless in their honour.
15. Light a special candle in their memory, perhaps daily, weekly, or on special occasions.
16. Save them a seat at significant gatherings and events.
17. Hike to their favourite wilderness spot and build a cairn in their memory.
18. Install a garden stone to commemorate them.
19. Transform your current garden into a remembrance garden.
20. Request their favourite song on a local radio show each year on the anniversary of their death.
21. Frame a treasured letter or handwritten item, creating a lasting tribute.
22. Write their biography.
23. Establish a scholarship fund or charitable organisation in their name.
24. Donate to a cause or charity that was dear to them.
25. Sponsor a bench or brick at one of their beloved places.
26. Plant a tree in their memory to aid in reforesting fire-devastated areas.
27. Wear an article of their clothing.
28. Create a memorial space in your home with photos, candles, and special mementoes.
29. Compile a memorial scrapbook with photos, stories, and clippings.
30. Live a life that honours their memory.
31. Write a poem or song, or create a piece of art in their honour.
32. Donate blood in their memory.
33. Continue their legacy of volunteering or community service.
34. Organise a butterfly release in their memory.

By integrating these thoughtful acts into our lives, we can continue to feel a profound connection with those we have lost, celebrating their influence and ensuring their spirit lives on in our daily actions.