Finding Presence in a Loved One’s Absence
The first holiday, the first birthday, the first family gathering after a loss — these are the moments when the absence of a loved one feels most acute.
The empty chair at the table is a silent, powerful symbol of who is missing. It’s a space that can feel heavy with grief and a stark reminder of the change in the family landscape.
But in that space, there is also presence. There is the memory of their laughter, the echo of their stories, the warmth of their love that still surrounds the family.
The chair is only truly empty if we let the stories fall silent. Sharing those stories is how we fill that space with love and keep their spirit alive.
Storytelling as an Act of Healing
Talking about those we’ve lost can be difficult. We might worry about upsetting others, or that we won’t be able to speak through our own tears.
But avoiding their name and their memory often creates a heavier silence. Storytelling, in contrast, can be a profound act of healing.
When we share a funny story about them, we bring their laughter back into the room.
When we recall a piece of their wisdom, we feel their guidance once more.
When we talk about how much they meant to us, we affirm that their impact on our lives is permanent.
Sharing memories doesn’t erase the pain of their absence, but it can soften it by reminding us of the joy of their presence.
Creating New Rituals of Remembrance
As families navigate a new reality, creating new rituals of remembrance can be a beautiful way to honour a loved one.
This could be as simple as lighting a candle for them, cooking their favourite meal, or going around the table and having each person share a favourite memory.
For some families, watching a tribute film together can become a quiet ritual of remembrance.
A Celebration of Life film, created for the memorial service, can be revisited on anniversaries or holidays.
It becomes a dedicated time to come together, to laugh, to cry, and to collectively remember the person who is so deeply missed.
It provides a focal point for remembrance, making it easier to open the door to conversation and shared feeling.
“The empty chair is only truly empty if we let the stories fall silent.”
Their Story Is Still Part of Your Story
A person’s story doesn’t end when their life does. Their story continues in the lives of everyone they touched.
It continues in the lessons they taught, the love they gave, and the memories they created.
The empty chair at the table is a reminder of a physical absence, but it doesn’t have to be a symbol of a spiritual one.
By intentionally making space for their stories, we ensure that their presence is always felt.
We honour their legacy by keeping it woven into the ongoing story of our family, reminding ourselves and each other that love — and a good story — never truly die.
Looking for a way to hold your loved one close?
Our Celebration of Life films offer a gentle, meaningful way to remember and honour someone special.
They create a space to gather, to share, and to feel connected — helping families keep love and memory alive through the hardest moments.
