Mother's Day Without Mom

Mother’s Day is a time we celebrate those who devoted their lives to caring for us and for bringing us into the world. But it can be a difficult holiday to celebrate after the passing of your mother. The passing of a parent is always difficult. But when holidays or birthdays pass us by, we are so often reminded of the empty seat at the table.

Spending Time With Siblings

If you have siblings, spend time with them on Mother’s Day. Reminisce on the fond memories together, and be there for each other. You can also spend time with your other parent. They’ll be missing her, too. Everyone grieves differently, but it is often helpful to have close family around for support. 

Enjoy Time With Your Children

If you have your own children, then spend Mother’s Day with them. Share a day making memories with your kids. Try to find joy with the loved ones you can surround yourself with today. Your mother would want you to celebrate with them. Have a good day spending time with those dearest to you, and celebrate the type of parent you were able to become because of the effort your mother has put into raising you.

Visiting the Cemetery

Trips to the cemetery are common on Mother’s Day. Visiting the cemetery can be healing. Some people might find it helpful to talk to a parent at their resting place; it can help create a sense of closure and acceptance. Consider planning a picnic at the cemetery if the weather is nice. Be sure to check the cemetery’s website or call them for information regarding activities allowed within the grounds. Some cemeteries will have dedicated picnic areas, and others will let you picnic at the gravesite. 

Look Through Photo Albums

Looking through photos of those we lost can bring up feelings of grief, but photographs are most often taken during all the good times. Looking back on family photos can be a great way to reminisce. Share these photos with your loved ones, and look back together.

Scrapbooking for Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is often a holiday for arts and crafts. Gather siblings or your children and create a Mother’s Day Scrapbook to remember all the good times, and to create something new and beautiful together. 

The author of this post is not a professional therapist or counselor. For more personalized grief care, find a grief counselor who is right for you. For our Grief Resource Center, written by Dr. Bill Webster, click here. 
For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.