Right after Mom passed away, I participated in a 9-week grief group led by a bereavement counsellor who worked for a local hospice centre. In the second week, we learned about "linking objects," which are "things that belonged to a deceased loved one and are reminders of experiences and feelings." In the following week, we were encouraged to bring a linking object to the session to show the group, or to share a story about one.
I took ownership of Mom's SUV 2 years ago. I also continue to wear Mom's sunglasses and sandals regularly. These things definitely serve as a reminder of Mom, but they also represent so much more for me. I hope that when I wear Mom's sunglasses, she gets to see what I see. When I wear her sandals, she walks where I walk. When I travel in her SUV, she gets to travel with me. I miss my mom, and these thoughts bring me comfort.
Here are some of the other linking objects I have kept of Mom's:
- I keep one of Mom's blankets in my office and wear it over me when it gets chilly, or sometimes cuddle it at night when I really miss her.
- I keep Mom's housecoat in my bedroom, and every time I wear it, I can feel my mom's embrace. Mom wore this housecoat every single day.
- I have plans to turn some of Mom's most-worn clothes into a memorable keep sake - a blanket, a teddy bear, or something of the like.
These linking objects help me feel connected to my mom and keep her presence alive in my daily life. They serve as tangible reminders of her love and the special bond we shared. Do you have linking objects that remind you of your loved ones? How do they help you feel connected to them? I'd love to hear your stories and the special items that bring you comfort and keep your loved ones close.
P.S. The below photo is a picture of the visor in the SUV I inherited from Mom. I look at it every time I hop into my car to travel anywhere.
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