This has been a sad week for me as we lost our little faithful dog over the weekend to cancer. I feel somewhat lost and lonely without him shadowing me wherever I go, wanting to play or go for a walk. I realize that time will heal the pain and grief, but for the time being, it's difficult.
I know many of you have experienced deeper grief in your lives, losing precious people. How do we deal with the loved one's things as time goes on?
For me this week, seeing the little reminders of my dog everywhere has been difficult. I have gradually begun collecting his stuff and putting it in a box to give to a animal rescue group that can use it. It's painful, but I don't know which is worse, seeing it all, or just boxing it up to help others. I think it's entirely appropriate to hold on to some things as special memories, especially from people. However, my question is, can some of their items help others in need? This is a very difficult topic and one that we all will wrestle with sooner or later.
Sorry for the morose post today. I felt it was a topic to consider.
Heidi, I'm sorry for your loss. I'm sure it is difficult to see all of his little possessions around the house. It probably is good to box them up as you find them and send them to the SPCA. They say they are always in need. Once again, sorry for your loss. ((hugs))
ReplyDeleteSo very sorry, Heidi! :( The stuff can stay or go at whatever time is needed for the one who is grieving! It is definitely an individual pace. It's harder though, since we usually live with other people who are grieving, too - and their pace isn't always our pace. So, we have to be sensitive with those around you as well. But you are right - time will help!
ReplyDeleteI feel so sorry for the loss of your little friend. When we lost our cat it was very difficult....in a way even more difficult than losing my mom (who was out of state), because he was with us all the time which made his absence so incredibly painful.
ReplyDeleteWorking in Home Health and Hospice I see people dealing with the belongings in so many different ways. Each family must handle it as they feel they are able. In giving some of them away, they can receive the blessing of knowing someone else is receiving something useful, something that can make someone's life easier.
I have a dear friend who makes memory boxes for those who have lost a family member. It is not extremely large, but a "place" where one can keep special things by which to remember the one they've lost. Maybe you can do something similar - take your time and decide which things would be the most special from your dog and place them in a memory box. It goes along with simplifying - saving only a small part of a loved one and giving it a proper place, a place where you can "re-visit" it when needed.
Hope this helps.
Today I am packing away my piles. Found 2 friends with whom to share clothes the children have outgrown - I prefer giving them to someone I know, someone who will really appreciate them.
Heidi, I am so sorry to hear about Oliver. He was a true friend and companion. When I spoke to you, I was glad to hear that you are saving his little dog tag to put on a scrapbook page. When time softens the freshness of your loss, I hope you find comfort in your fond memories of him.
ReplyDeleteHeidi, I am so sorry about Oliver. I know that you are so very sad because he was such an important part of all your lives. He will be missed by anyone who has ever met him. Having only met him a couple of times, he sure brightened my day! Remember all the good times!
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