I just can’t bring myself to get rid of my loved one’s belongings.

I just can’t bring myself to get rid of my loved one’s belongings. I feel disloyal if I give away any of those items, so I have just kept everything. The dresser drawers and closets are full of my loved one’s things. Am I being unrealistic? I know that there are people in great need and perhaps I could be of help by sharing these items.

Many people have talked to me about making this very difficult decision. Grief is a process and not an event. Adjusting and accepting that your loved one is no longer with you physically takes a lot more time that people would want to believe. Every time you give away something that belonged to your loved one it is a reminder that they are no longer with you. Your loss is your loss, and the pain you feel is real. Letting go of those precious items will take as long as you need. Do not allow anyone to rush you. However, there will come a time when you will know in your heart that your loved one is really gone. Perhaps that is why you are asking this question. You already see the needs of others that can be helped by the memory of your loved one. That loved one will always be with you in memory, and there will be items that you will keep that will remind you of your special times together.

Questions & Comments

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