Today, the last bank holiday Monday of May, has been earmarked as Celebration Day – a day to celebrate those we love and have lost. For who they were. For all they’ve brought. For all they’ve left behind…

Those we love and have lost aren’t usually far from our minds. They pay us a visit when we’re making a cup of tea. Or walking the dog. Or having a quiet five. Or, as with my grandmother, when I’m doing something she’d rather I didn’t.

And these little snippets of them – a funny thought, their scowl – are them still with us. Still guiding. Still laughing. Still loving us for who we’ve always been to them.

And for me, I find it all comforting. I find it freeing. I find the feeling their visit brings makes me smile. Makes me rejoice knowing, no matter what, they’re always here with me. Somewhat closer, it feels, than maybe they were in life.

And of course, their visit is tinged with a little sadness. 

But, aren’t the best ones every feeling and more? 

Weren’t our loved ones all that to us?

Today – Celebration Day – is a day for us to take five. To raise a glass. To be thankful and celebrate the ongoing input of those we love who have died.

And we should speak of these people. Regale tales of who they were…

Be glad every time they pop into our minds.

Enjoy their every visit. Saviour the flash of their smile…

And maybe, we should do this every day. Not just today.

Crack open the bubbly & be glad!

BBC News shared this article today: Do we need a Celebration Day for loved ones who have died?

And you can find further information by visiting the Celebration Day website.