Letters to the Editor

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I could have gone, I should have gone, but I thought about the money and my other plans!
  • Send A Condolence Letter

    Did your aunt have other family - children, spouse, someone close to her? Write a thoughtful letter to one of them, telling them why your aunt mattered to you, maybe with a story or two about times you shared with your aunt. It doesn't matter if you don't know them well.

    My mother died when I was fairly young (still in college). There was a memorial service, and people said nice, generic things. But some of my Mom's friends sent me letters or notes, just telling me why they missed my Mom and what she meant to them. Stories about things they did together. I'd never even met most of these friends, but those notes meant a great deal to me. I still have them and read them every now and then.

    It's not the same as going to the funeral, but it's a way to feel connected to her and to other people who were close to her.

    You might also do something in honor of your aunt. My Dad died recently and I had a memorial service for him - which was fine, but not as meaningful to me as doing something that meant something to us and our relationship - going to a favorite place, or singing a favorite song, etc. You mentioned that your aunt always gave you great Christmas presents. Christmas is a long way away, but maybe you could give awesome Christmas presents to someone in need, and think of her when you do.