It doesn’t matter when you lost her, but waking up on Mother’s Day without the presence of your beloved mom is never easy. When spring rolls in and after Easter celebrations, this maternal holiday is visible everywhere with signs, flowers, and balloons reminding you to get ready for this very special day that’s only meant for mothers.
Understandably, it can be quite painful and heartbreaking to see festive insignias because they remind you that she’s no longer physically present. It hurts even more when you’ve just finished with the burial or cremation services. Even if your heart hurts at her passing, ignoring and pretending this holiday doesn’t exist may not be the best option for your mental wellness.
Though you may find it difficult to commemorate this much-anticipated holiday in May when your wound feels raw, it is vital to celebrate your mom and the spirit she embodies. Bear in mind that even if you’re no longer physically with each other, she is always with you in spirit and you carry the values she taught you in your heart.
Even if it is hard, you must find ways to celebrate your mother and her impact on your life. After all, you won’t be where you are today without her love, care, and guidance. Here are thoughtful ideas to help you retain and foster that connection with your mom on Mother’s Day, even if she’s no longer around.
Carry On and Bring Your Special Traditions to Life
If you’re feeling stumped, look back into history and try to remember all the activities that you and she used to do together. Go back to places that you frequented, especially if it’s a sentimental location that holds meaning. If you used to celebrate together by doing brunch at a local cafe, you head back there and do the same thing. Order her favorite dish on the menu. You can also try making her signature recipes and see if your gastronomic creations would live up to how she used to do them. Doing these traditions can be incredibly helpful, soothing, and calming. They will help you realize that although she’s no longer physically present, her legacy lives on in all these little endeavors.
Write Her a Sentimental Greeting Card
Most likely, you used to purchase her a poignant card before the 2nd Sunday of May rolls in. There’s no reason why you should stop just because she has passed away. And even if you’re not used to writing a card, taking the time to pen down your thoughts on physical paper can help. Many studies show that writing heartfelt messages to the deceased is therapeutic. You can talk about how much you miss her, write a bible verse, put an inspirational quote, or pick a memory. The art of writing a greeting card becomes even more meaningful now that she’s gone. Writing from the heart and pouring out your emotions is incredibly cathartic. Just because she’s not around doesn’t mean you cannot find ways to connect with her. A card is indeed a perfect and affordable way to express your love.
Take Time to Visit Her Final Resting Place
If your mom’s final resting place is in a cemetery nearby, go ahead and visit her. These places are generally serene, quiet, and peaceful, making them the perfect venue to reflect on your memories with your mom. Take a few hours from your day and spend a quiet Sunday by her side. You can pack a picnic lunch and play her favorite songs (use earbuds if there are others nearby). This is an excellent way to feel reconnected with your mother even if she has long been gone.
Plan a Festive Day With Your Siblings
Should you find it very difficult to celebrate Mother’s Day on your own, get in touch with your siblings or anyone else who had a very close relationship with her. Taking time to get together during this special holiday will feel more comforting when you are in the company of family and friends. You can plan an informal yet festive celebration like a simple picnic in the park or a barbeque in your backyard. Being together allows you to reminisce with each other and enjoy companionship. Being with a group, especially when the loss is new can be very comforting when you’re grieving. This gathering allows you to bond and support one another. It can even become a new cherished tradition that allows you to move on into a new normal without your mother.
Pay Attention and Watch Out for Simple Signs
Sometimes, your mother’s presence is in the little things. If you’re not in the mood to plan anything elaborate, just be more observant and watch out for signs. If you pay attention, you will recognize it could be in nature, may it be through music, the smell of food, or her favorite songs. You could also be surprised to smell her signature scent suddenly flowing and lingering in the air. Or it could be a rainbow appearing as you look at your bay window. All these little details will help you realize that she’s with you somehow.
You can try a few of these suggestions if you wish to celebrate Mother’s Day. Some of them may not be relevant to you or may not fit your lifestyle. But no matter what you decide, it is critical to acknowledge the memory of your mom this Mother’s Day so you can find peace. Remember, there are no goodbyes because no matter what happens, you carry her fondest memories and wishes for you in your heart forever.