A Celebration of Life: Uplifting Ways to Remember Loved Ones This December
- DDC
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
December in the Philippines is a season of light, warmth, and reunion. Families attend Simbang Gabi, gather for noche buena, and fill homes with laughter and stories. But for many, it is also a time when the absence of a loved one feels deeper. The holidays can stir memories, both comforting and bittersweet, making December an ideal moment to honor those who are no longer with us.
Remembering a loved one does not have to bring sorrow. In Filipino culture, remembrance is rooted with gratitude, celebration, and the belief that love continues beyond time. This December, you can embrace rituals that bring comfort, healing, and meaningful connection.
1. Light a Candle of Remembrance
Lighting a candle is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to honor someone. Many Filipinos light candles during special occasions, including the holidays, to symbolize that the spirit of a loved one continues to shine with us.
Set a candle beside a photo, home altar, or even near your Christmas tree. Let its warm glow symbolize love that endures.
2. Prepare Their Favorite Holiday Dish
Food brings memories to life. A familiar dish or favorite holiday recipe can instantly bring back stories shared with someone you miss.
This December, include your loved one's favorite dish during noche buena or a family feast. Whether arroz caldo, bibingka, or a favorite Christmas dessert, preparing it brings their presence back to your celebration.
Encourage family members to share memories connected to the dish. It becomes a celebration of life rather than a moment of sadness.
3. Create a Memory Ornament
A touching holiday tradition is crafting a remembrance ornament. You can:
Insert a small photo
Add a handwritten message
Place a meaningful symbol such as a charm, dried flower, or fabric
Hang it on your tree as a gentle reminder that love remains part of every celebration.
4. Visit Their Resting Place or Dearly Departed’s Newly Opened Columbarium
For many Filipino families, visiting a loved one’s resting place during the holidays is a quiet ritual of prayer and reflection.
This December is also a meaningful time to visit Dearly Departed’s newly opened columbarium, now welcoming families and available for reselling. Thoughtfully designed to be peaceful and dignified, it offers a serene atmosphere where families can reconnect with cherished memories.
Bring flowers, light a candle, or spend a few minutes in prayer. Even a short visit can provide grounding and emotional comfort.
5. Start a New Tradition in Their Honor
New traditions can transform grief into gratitude. Consider meaningful acts such as:
Donating to a cause they supported
Playing their favorite Christmas song
Releasing biodegradable lanterns
Organizing a small family storytelling night
These gestures keep their legacy alive in a warm and uplifting way.
6. Write a Letter of Love and Gratitude
Writing a letter can help release feelings you still hold in your heart.
Share your experiences from the year, your challenges, your milestones, and the ways their memory continues to guide and inspire you.
7. Give Yourself the Space to Feel
Grief during the holidays can be unpredictable. Some days feel heavy, while others are filled with warmth and beautiful memories.
Allow yourself to feel both.
Celebrate quietly when you wish to. Pause and rest when emotions rise. Tears and laughter both honor your love for them.
At Dearly Departed, we gently encourage families to see remembrance as healing, not as sorrow, but as an expression of love.
A Season of Love That Lives On
December is a time of reflection and gratitude. Even as we miss those who have gone ahead, their memories continue to guide us and give meaning to our celebrations.
By embracing these heartfelt rituals, we do not just look back. We continue the legacy of the lives that made our world brighter.
With our newly opened columbarium and dedicated services, Dearly Departed is honored to support Filipino families in preserving legacies, cherishing memories, and finding moments of peace throughout the holiday season.
May your December be filled with warmth, love, and beautiful remembrance of those who live forever in your heart.
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