The late American author Helen Keller lost her sight and hearing when she was only 19 months old, but her legacy is defined by her drive, activism and words. One of her most inspiring quotes is this: “What we have once enjoyed, we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes part of us.” While Keller might seem like an unlikely source for such inspirational words, it’s no doubt the very reason they are so potent. The disability rights activist was no stranger to loss and grief, which makes her the perfect introduction to today’s primary topic: grief.
Even though it’s a burden none of us would choose to bear, at some point in our lives we must grapple with grief of one kind or another, whether it’s the loss of a loved one or pet, the end of a relationship or a significant life change like those involving health and finance. Through the years, society has even identified the distinct stages of grief and how we deal with it.
Table of Contents
The 5 Stages of Grief
1. Denial
2. Anger
3. Bargaining
4. Depression
5. Acceptance
Perhaps you’re familiar with the 5 stages of grief, but have you heard of National Grief Awareness Day? It is observed annually on August 30 and, given today’s discussion, we thought it might be a good time to share a little about this reflective and little-known occasion.
What Is National Grief Awareness Day?
National Grief Awareness Day was founded by educator and grief expert Angela Cartwright in 2014. She desired to set aside one day a year to:
1. Draw attention to the necessary self-care associated with loss.
2. Educate the public on the many resources available to the grieving.
3. Reverse the stigma of our response to bereavement and other forms of grief.
While these are the primary tenants of National Grief Awareness Day, Cartwright’s ultimate goal for the yearly occasion is a more holistic one: to deliver universal advocacy, care and healing to individuals dealing with the manifestations of grief past, present and future.
How to Help Family and Friends During Times of Grief
While National Grief Awareness Day is only once a year, it’s nice to know there are resources to help with these kinds of struggles every day. Caring people who can uplift us in our times of need. If someone you love has lost someone or is currently dealing with grief of some kind, here are a few ways you can be a help to them:
1. Just be there for them. Sometimes it’s as simple as that.
2. Listen to them. When people want to talk – and remember, they won’t always want to – lending an ear can feel incredibly validating and supportive.
3. Small gestures and practical help. Preparing meals for someone, running errands for them or helping them with basic chores can provide much relief when people don’t have the energy for some of life’s necessities.
4. Words of encouragement. Giving someone a quick phone call or text to let them know you’re thinking of them goes a long way. Writing them a note or a greeting card is also a thoughtful gesture. A few words from the heart can be potent and healing.
5. Giving physical gifts of remembrance. This is where we’ve enlisted the help of the Gift Advisors from The Bradford Exchange for some meaningful suggestions.
Why Bereavement Gifts Matter
Giving bereavement gifts to those who have experienced a loss can be an extremely powerful gesture. When you do so, you not only give the generous gift of your comfort, love and support, but you also acknowledge the gravity of their loss by giving them a lasting tribute. For example, a beautiful piece of memorial jewelry they can keep always close to remind them that the spirit of their loved one lives on. Or perhaps a bouquet of vivid memorial flowers that will never fade to provide encouragement each day. These are the kinds of meaningful selections you will find in our Top 8 Bereavement Gifts: Chosen for National Grief Awareness Day.
Heavenly Messenger Music Box
The soothing tranquility of “Always in My Heart” unites with a true work of art in this tuneful keepsake. Inspired by the revered artistry of Peter Carl Faberge and his prized eggs, this unique music box is handcrafted of Heirloom Porcelain® and sparkles with over 80 hand-set jewels and 22K gold accents. Rising from the center of the egg is a sculpted cardinal – the messenger of hope – who’s inspirational symbolism is reinforced by a poetic golden sentiment on the base.
Diamond Until We Meet Again Ring
“Always” is a word that beautifully binds our loved ones to us. It’s the same word that graces this ring as a reminder they are always close. Handcrafted of solid sterling silver, the band sparkles with ribbons of 10 genuine diamonds for a subtle elegance and is engraved with the words “Until We Meet Again” inside the band to provide even more comfort. And for a finishing touch, “Always” is accented with another genuine diamond. Includes a heartfelt poem card and gift box.
Wings of Wonder Bracelet
Whenever you see a butterfly, it’s a comforting reminder that a past loved one is still with you, an uplifting sentiment symbolized by this handcrafted 18K gold-plated bracelet. It showcases breathtaking artwork by acclaimed artist Lena Liu in full color, embraced all over by sculpted vines and flowers with 10 hand-set crystal accents. There’s even a heartfelt message engraved on the back and a butterfly slider clasp. Arrives with a touching poem card in a custom presentation case.
Always in My Heart Personalized Pendant Necklace
Though they may be gone, they will never be forgotten in the hearts of those who love them. This solid sterling silver pendant is “wrapped” with sculpted angels’ wings to symbolize the comfort that heaven brings, and shimmers with angelic 18K gold-plated accents. Best of all, a passed loved one’s name is personalized on the heart with their crystal birthstone featured above. Includes a meaningful engraving on the back and a velvet jewelry pouch with gift box.
Till We Meet Again Heirloom Wind Chime Collection
The cardinal is heaven’s messenger, a reminder that those who’ve passed are still so close. Artwork of this red winged wonder is featured on Heirloom Porcelain® wind chimes in this inspiring collection meant to bring hope to each day. Graced with 22K gold accents and comforting words, each functional bell-shaped chime comes ready to hang and catch the gentle breeze. Plus, each one includes a full-color keepsake poem card and coordinating gift box.
Until We Meet Again Personalized Poem Plaque
With its poetic words of hope and encouragement, this personalized plaque makes a beautiful tribute to someone’s life and legacy. The handcrafted wooden plaque boasts a shimmering metal plate with the poem “Until We Meet Again” against inspiring sunset artwork. To punctuate the uplifting words, the name of a special loved one graces the bottom of the plaque with “In Loving Memory”. Arrives ready for immediate display.
Messenger from Heaven Ornament
With every holiday season, their memory can be celebrated with this heirloom Christmas ornament. Handcrafted of hand-blown glass, it shimmers with raised-relief swirls of golden glitter and curling leaves surrounding the cardinal imagery of acclaimed artist James Hautman and a comforting sentiment. And with the flip of a switch, the ornament illuminates from within to create a celestial glittery glow. Includes a custom presentation box and poem card.
Beloved Memories Personalized Garden Stone
The strength of a family tree comes from the “limb” of each member. Even when one falls away too soon, keeping their memory alive can be such a comfort, an idea never more beautifully expressed than with this memorial garden stone. Handcrafted with the look and feel of weathered rock, it’s graced with an amber-hued low-relief tree design and elevating poem. Plus, it’s inscribed with a loved one’s name at the bottom in tribute.
As we prepare for National Grief Awareness Day, we hope this article was helpful, hopeful and heartening for you. If you are currently dealing with a loss or know someone who is, perhaps you could find a little respite today. We trust that’s the case and invite you to share any comments you might have below.
Top 8 Bereavement Gifts: Chosen for National Grief Awareness Day by The Bradford Exchange
About The Bradford Exchange
The Gift Advisors @The Bradford Exchange are thrilled to help you discover a wealth of artistic treasures, all of which began with passion. Whether you are looking for that perfect personalized gift or a unique collection for yourself, we are driven to make your shopping experience as joyful as possible and hope you are surprised and delighted with what you find. Thank you for your continued support.
