How to Create a Thoughtful Memorialization Post in Honor of Your Loved One
Who Should Write the Post?
Ideally, the person closest to the deceased should undertake the responsibility of writing the post. This could include their spouse, children, best friend, etc. If you are given the responsibility of writing the memorial and are struggling to do so, don't refrain from asking for help and making it a collaborative effort.
When Should the Post Be Shared?
As a rule of thumb, Beyond The Dash notes that it's best to wait at least 24 hours https://beyondthedash.com/blog/etiquette-and-advice/how-to-announce-a-death-on-social-media/4951 after the passing to share the memorial on social media. The first day is bound to be difficult for the family as it may involve dealing with arranging funeral services and mourning the loss. Additionally, this time should be used to inform close relatives about the loved ones passing, rather than them learning about it indirectly through social media.
What Should the Post Include?
The core focus of the post should be to honor the memory of the deceased. This can include sharing the positive impact they had on individuals, major achievements, and notable memories you seek to share. Avoid providing every detail regarding the death, a simple one-line explanation will suffice.
If the funeral is remaining, you can provide details of the time, date, and location to allow interested individuals a chance to come and pay their respects. Conversely, if all ceremonies are completed, consider adding a link to the obituary uploaded by the funeral home on their website.
Which Platforms Should the Post Be Shared On?
Opt to post on social media channels your loved one used the most. But, if you're unsure, it's best to share it on Instagram/Facebook to reach friends and close relatives, in addition to posting on Linked-In, where most of their colleagues and professional connections will be present.
As for their personal social media accounts https://www.livemint.com/technology/tech-news/instagram-s-new-memorial-feature-will-remember-users-who-died-due-to-coronavirus-11587644995982.html, you now have the option of converting them https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/how-turn-friend-family-members-24242096 into a 'Memorialized Account.' As reported by Facebook, these accounts will have the word remembering next to the deceased's name. Additionally, you'll be able to control whether others will be able to share photos, condolences, or other content on their page or not.
Responsibilities Beyond the Memorialization Post
One of the main responsibilities https://www.simplicity.co.uk/media/1385/sc0086-09-19-01-what-to-do-when-someone-dies-checklist-v4.pdf after your loved one's passing will be handling their assets<https://www.redfin.com/definition/probate-sale>through the probate process. If they've left a will, the process of transferring assets will be simple as the person mentioned in the document will become the new owner. But, if no will was made, courts will assume ownership of the assets and after the due process will hand it over to a member of the family.
Managing either of these routes singlehandedly will be strenuous and time-consuming. Plan to work with an experienced real estate agent to whom you can delegate this responsibility and provide yourself ample time and space to grieve.
Starting a Nonprofit
Besides writing a thoughtful memorialization post, starting a nonprofit in the honor of a deceased loved one is an incredibly meaningful way to remember and celebrate someone's life. It can be a powerful way to keep the memory of your loved one alive, while also making a real and lasting impact on those around you. Not only will it bring attention to an issue that was important to your loved one, but it can provide support to individuals or communities afflicted by their loss. Before starting your nonprofit, it's a good idea to form a nonprofit corporation so it'll be easier to access grants and funding https://www.zenbusiness.com/nonprofit-corp/.
Focusing on Self-Care
Bereavement can extract a big toll on emotional and mental health. During this time, taking a deep breath becomes important to help you manage responsibilities and grieve in a healthy manner. Here are a few useful strategies to follow:
* Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. According to Piedmont, it'll result in the release of feel-good hormones such as oxytocin, serotonin, and more, leading to better moods and reduced stress https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/how-exercise-helps-balance-hormones.
* Engaging in physical activity will also make you feel tired and sleep for at least 6-8 hours each night.
* If you're experiencing excessive negativity in your home - which hampers any attempt at self-care - it's time to replace the stress with a positive living environment. Take time to declutter, tidying up the place, and even burn sage to help remove the bad vibes. Once cleansed of the negativity, you can focus on bringing in good vibes, which will help promote your self-care strategy.
* At times when you feel overwhelmed, reach out to friends or family for comfort. Social support will help you manage grief https://www.cruse.org.uk/understanding-grief/ better and overcome thoughts of uncertainties.
Creating a thoughtful memorialization post on social media will serve as a good outlet to honor the deceased and allow others to pay their respects as well. You can also take additional steps like handling their probate process and starting a nonprofit in their honor.
