Today, our nation honors the lives lost and the great sacrifices of so many as we look back on the impact of the events of September 11th a staggering decade ago. It is likely that you remember exactly where you were and how you felt in the instant you learned of the tragedy that was unfolding in New York City that day. These types of memories make great impacts on us as pivotal moments in our personal history. Honoring any great losses in our lives as a way to respect and remember loved ones is a part of healing as we pay tribute.
There are so many special, small ways in which to acknowledge the influence on us of special people we have lost. Some plant tribute gardens or trees and mark them with placards. Even planting distinctive potted plants or a windowsill herb garden and adding a framed photo alongside of a relative or friend who has passed is a way to acknowledge them as you tend to and watch your plants thrive.
Adding a fixture to your garden, porch, or home that represents a special person is another way to pay tribute. A bench in a garden could be a memorable way to reminisce over a parent whom you spent time there with. A rocker or swing on your front porch could illicit memories of a grandparent you miss. Taking a piece of furniture, a chair, or a decoration with some family history and using it in your own home keeps part of their history alive with your own family. You could paint an old chest of drawers and add new hardware or reupholster a side or dining chair to make it fit your style while keeping its original frame displayed. An aged mirror from a relative’s dresser could be lacquered in a new finish and rest on your mantle for a fresh look with a story behind it.
Photo books made through an online company are another distinguished way to preserve the moments that were captured in stills over the years and can be displayed on your coffee table or bookshelf. A photo collage hung in matching frames in a hallway or on a dining room wall can be a blend of memories from many years ago with the activities of your family now.
Ultimately, displaying something that has meaning for you is a way to celebrate the life of someone who you held dear. Whether it is based on a funny memory or story or is a simple gesture of remembrance, filling your home with tokens of love and life adds meaning to yours.
DesignInMind column; appeared in the Valley Morning Star September 11th.
