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I go at least once a week. Richard’s stone has not been placed due to a shortage of granite. I’ve been told it should be there within the next several weeks. I will be glad when that happens.

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“A MOURNING MOMENT”

How often should a person visit a gravesite? That question has been asked many times. I always have the same answer, “as many times as you want to visit the gravesite… if ever”.

A trip to the cemetery can be a very emotional and difficult time for some people. Seeing the grave, and the headstone, can create a struggle with accepting the reality of a death. Going to a cemetery should be an individual choice, and never anything forced upon a person.

Some are comfortable visiting the gravesite on a regular basis, everyone is different. Some have no plans or intentions of ever going there again. Either way is OK, whatever is right for each person.

Some use the occasion to honor the memory of a loved one by placing flowers on the grave. Others place small sculptures or decorations that are linked to memories. Flags are often placed upon the grave of a Veteran to honor service to their country.

It can be very healthy to visit a grave and express any words that need to be said. Verbalizing feelings can give relief and soften the pain for some. It is not that our deceased loved ones need to hear our words…it is that we need to put voice to them. An important part of healthy grief is to identify what needs to be said, speak it, express it, vent and release it. It may be that a visit to the grave is the outlet needed to encourage mourning.

Visit the grave as many times as you want to…if ever.

Bob Willis, author/sculptor

“A Guide for Grievers”

“JESUS: The CRUCIFIED CAREGIVER”

Email Bob at rwillis14@cox.net