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Category: Funeral Tips

Valentine’s Day Without Them: Memorial Ideas
Valentine’s Day is supposed to be a time of joy and a celebration of love. But for others, it only brings sadness and even more grief.

Unfortunately, grief is unavoidable and can be overwhelming for many people. The emotions are intensified during this period. It is important to understand this to help you cope and find ways to make them more manageable.

Here are some ideas on how to keep their memory alive and celebrate your love even after they have passed away.
- Write them a letter.
It can be difficult for you after you have lost a spouse. Expressing your feelings of grief and sadness would be hard while others are celebrating their love. You can write your thoughts and feelings in a safe, private space. It gives you the opportunity to process your emotions in an honest and meaningful way.

Write a love story for your late spouse. It is your love letter to them.
- Invite friends or family to celebrate with you.
Choosing to be isolated during this day is totally fine. However, hosting an intimate gathering of family and friends can provide you with the love and support you need to cope. It is probably what everyone needs after the loss. This small gathering will be an opportunity to remember a loved one, share stories, and celebrate their life.

Surrounding yourself with family and friends on Valentine’s Day will provide you comfort during a difficult time.
- Bring flowers to their grave.
If you have lost a loved one recently, visiting their grave site is hard and can bring back strong emotions. But it also can help you accept and move on. By visiting them, you are also reminded of our mortality and how important it is to cherish the memories of those we have lost.

Flowers are a beautiful way to remember those who have passed away. They are the expression of love and appreciation for the life of the person we have lost; a tangible reminder of one’s life and a great way to honor their memory.
- Light a candle.
While Valentine’s Day is a day of joy and celebration, it can be a time of sadness if you cannot be with your loved one. Lighting a candle can somehow make you feel their presence on this special day. But be aware that it will bring back sad emotions.

The light of the candle represents your loved one’s presence with you on Valentine’s Day. After lighting the candle, close your eyes, breathe and imagine them being with you. This simple act will you feel connected to them even if they are not with you physically.
- Give back to honor them.
By giving back on Valentine’s Day, you can remember your dearly beloved in a meaningful way. You can share your love with others in their memory. You can use this day as an opportunity to make a positive difference in someone’s life. This is one of the most beautiful ways to remember those you have lost and keep their spirit alive.

You can choose a charity or an organization that you know your loved one would have supported if they were still alive. Volunteer if you have the time or make donations to honor them.

This Valentine’s Day, give yourself some space. Relax and take care of yourself. Your deceased loved one would have wanted you to be happy and live your life. Take some time of the day to do something that brings you joy, whether it’s reading a book or taking a walk. Let your loved one’s spirit guide you as you honor their memory on February 14.
February 5, 2023
Different Kinds of Caskets Available in the Philippines and How Much Does It Cost
Caskets are a form of art meant to reflect the personality and life of the person who passed. It helps preserve the body, allowing family and friends to say goodbye to their loved ones. It is a final gesture of love and respect, but also a last act of closure.

Caskets can be made from various materials, including wood, metal, or fabric. They can be solid or open-faced, with or without handles. A well-designed coffin can help provide comfort to those who are mourning.

Different kinds of caskets available in the Philippines:
- Wood
Wooden caskets are available in a wide range of styles and price points. It is a popular choice for those who want their loved ones to be buried in an eco-friendly manner. The high-end designs are made with hardwood like oak, mahogany, or maple. There are low-priced caskets, but oftentimes, they are not on display.

Wooden casket price ranges between PHP 3,000 to millions.
- Metal
The price of metal caskets will vary depending on the thickness of the steel used. The thickness of the steel depends on its gauge. The lower the gauge, the thicker the metal. This means that it will be more expensive when the gauge decreases.

Metal casket prices range between PHP 16,000 to millions. Some funeral homes offer a warranty for longevity to their select metal casket.
- Fiberglass
Fiberglass caskets are made of polymer resin mixed with glass fibers. They are lightweight and durable and can be produced in any shape or size. They are also available in many different colors, which is not typical for other types of caskets.

Other features
- Exterior design
It is common in the Philippines that people to choose ready-made caskets as they are more affordable. However, custom-made caskets are also available, but might cost more.

The casket shell is covered in a protective coating such as lacquer or varnish. Some casket makers accept customization and would paint the casket shell with other colors or wrapped with images to reflect the personality of the deceased. Other external parts of the casket can be customized as well, such as the handles and corners.
- Interior design
The lining inside the casket is usually made from a more economical material like polyester and it serves as a bed for the body. The type of material chosen for this purpose varies depending on factors such as cost and personal preference. A velvet or silk lining, for example, may be preferred by some.

Some caskets have gaskets. The gaskets provide a seal between two objects to cushion or isolate them from the outside environment. Caskets are closed with a lid and then sealed with a gasket, which is a piece of rubber or other material. Gaskets may help preserve the body for an extended period, however, it doesn’t stop the body from decomposing.
- Internal compartment
A memory compartment is a special place where the family can put in small items that they want to go with the deceased. This could be pictures, messages, or something special.

Planning for the future is a difficult task, especially when it comes to funeral expenses. With rising costs and limited budgets, it is becoming increasingly difficult to make sure that funeral costs are covered. Fortunately, there are ways to make funeral planning more affordable. By taking steps such as investing in a pre-need life plan, individuals can ensure that their loved ones are not burdened with expensive funeral expenses after they pass away.
January 8, 2023
Grief & Loss: Understanding and Talking About Your Feelings
Coping with a loss is different for everyone and there are no “right” or “wrong” ways to do it. What works for one person may not work for another person, so take time to explore your options before deciding on what will work best for you.

It’s natural for people who are grieving to feel ashamed or guilty when they talk about their feelings. They might think that people won’t understand what they’re feeling or that other people will judge them for how they are feeling.

Grief is a very personal and difficult experience. People go through different stages of the process, and in order to get through it, they need to be able to talk about it.

Here are some simple tips you can do to understand and talk about your feelings when grieving:
- Know how to name your emotions
We often notice how we feel in certain situations or when we are in a certain mood. But sometimes, it can be hard to put your finger on what exactly is making you feel a certain way. Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or sad?

Keeping a journal is a great way to express your thoughts and feelings. It is a way to express yourself and help you process your feelings and get them out of your system. Journaling is a way to make sense of the world.
- Talk about your feelings
Talking about your feelings with someone you trust can be a helpful way to process and understand your emotions. You may find it can help to put things into perspective.
- Learn how to use “I”
When we speak of emotions, it is often difficult to put into words how we are feeling. It is easy to come up with an answer that seems like it should be the right one, but in reality it can feel very forced and unnatural. It can be tempting to try to guess what someone else might be feeling, but that is not a good idea. When trying to explain our own emotions, it is best to focus on our own experiences and feelings rather than trying to understand how someone else might feel.

Try saying “I feel” without having to explain it. It helps others understand what you are going through, and it also helps you understand your own feelings better.
- Pause and breathe
When the conversation is not going well, it is important to pause or take a break. This will help you to calm down and manage your emotions.

We can take a few slow breaths, wait until we feel calmer, and then continue the conversation.
- Don’t be afraid or ashamed to ask for help
It’s important to remember that asking for help is a sign of strength and not weakness. This can be helpful if you want others to know how you want them to react or support you.

When asking for help, it is important not to make it seem like a sign of weakness. It is important to be open and honest about what you are trying to accomplish and why you need the help.
October 16, 2022
8 Tips to Cope with Loss During the Holiday Season

Grief is a natural process of healing that can help people to cope with loss. But it can also be a difficult and painful process.

It’s hard to be in the holiday spirit when you’re dealing with the death of someone close to you. The holidays can be especially difficult if it’s your first Christmas without them, or if you’ve lost someone who was a big part of your family. It may seem as if it is hard to move past the pain and sadness, but there are ways to make it easier.

It is important to know that you are not alone in your feelings and that there are many resources available to help you get through this difficult time.

Here are some tips that may help you or someone you know who is grieving during the holiday season:

It is important to set boundaries with holiday events.

It can be hard to say no when you are invited to a party or an office holiday event. However, it is important not to overcommit yourself and spend too much time away from your family.

A good way to set boundaries with holiday events is by saying ‘yes’ only if you are 100% sure that you can make it. Should you feel like not joining any parties? You know yourself more and decline invitations politely.

Allow yourself to feel the grief and the pain of losing a loved one.

Sometimes you have to stop and give yourself time. Grieve what feels good to grieve, don’t wear it feels exhaustive, and listen to your heart when it’s ready to move forward. And know that it’s okay – because grief is a part of life, not something we should hide or shy away from but rather accept as the season of life for which it is.

Do not overthink. Breathe and plan ahead.

The loss of a loved one can be hard for anyone. But it can also mean that certain roles will need to be filled. In the case of a death, the deceased individual’s spouse may take on many of the responsibilities and roles that were once fulfilled by the deceased.

The key is to not just focus on the event itself, but also on the events that will precede and follow it. This way, you can be prepared for anything and everything that might happen. Planning ahead will also give you a sense of relief because you know that you are ready for whatever life throws your way.

Honor traditions, and cherish the memories

There are many reasons why people choose to honor the deceased traditions that existed in their culture. Many cultures have rituals and ceremonies that are meant to help the living deal with grief and loss. These can be a great way for family and friends to find comfort in the wake of death.

The idea is that these traditions provide a sense of continuity, which helps them cope with their loss.

Create new traditions and memories

When someone dies, it can be difficult for those who are left behind to find ways to cope with the loss. One way that people have found to cope with this is by creating new traditions for themselves. It does not erase old memories of the person who has died, but it can help people move on and heal.

Find a grief coping strategy

The holiday season is a stressful event for many people. Here are some ideas that might help you cope with your grief:

– Spending time with loved ones

– Getting enough sleep

– Taking care of yourself physically and mentally

Honor your loved one by volunteering

A study showed that many people volunteer not only to help others, but also, to make themselves feel good. They said it is good for the soul. That being said, volunteering at an organization that was meaningful to your deceased loved one can greatly help you feel a little bit better.

Don’t forget to ask for help

The holidays are a time for celebration and joy. Yet, this time of year can also be difficult for many people. If you have lost someone close to you, the holidays can bring up many complicated feelings. It is important to reach out to others who understand what you’re going through and know how to support you.

If you have lost someone close to you this holiday season, it is important to remember that they are always with you in spirit and that they would want you to be happy and healthy during this time of the year.

Some people may find themselves feeling lonely and isolated during this time, while others may feel overwhelmed by the number of expectations that come with being a part of the festivities. There are also those who want to avoid the holiday season altogether because it brings back memories from previous years or because they don’t have any family or friends to share in the celebrations with them.

Whatever your feelings are about this time of year, you deserve to be able to celebrate in whatever way feels best for you.

August 21, 2022
How Important is the Funeral?

Funeral rituals are a very important part of the death process. They are designed to help the family and friends of the deceased cope with their loss and remember them for years to come.

It is often a very personal and emotional event for many people. For most people, this can be a time when everyone in the family and friends comes together to remember someone they loved dearly, or it can be an opportunity for people who have never met before to come together in solidarity and support for those who have lost someone close to them.

Where to hold a funeral?

Most funeral homes offer funeral chapels which are often included in their funeral package. You may also choose to hold the funeral in your residence or a religious venue.

But… why is a funeral important?

Shared grief is lessened grief

The funeral is a ceremony that honors the life of the deceased. It’s a chance for people to come together, share memories, and say goodbye. It’s also an opportunity for loved ones to come together in support of each other.

Sharing our grief and the loss of our loved ones with others can help us heal and find acceptance. The more we share our grief, the easier for us to accept the death of a loved one and the healthier it becomes for us to walk through this bereavement process.

A time of sorrow

Psychologists and researchers have found that funerals are important for the grieving process.

When someone dies, people often feel a sense of disbelief and shock. They are in this state of numbness and don’t know what to do. The person might also feel as if they cannot even move from the place where the tragedy happened. It is important to not let these feelings get too strong, so that the person can get back on their feet and start living again.

One way to counter these effects is by participating in a funeral for the person who died. This helps them come out of their numbness and start feeling like they can live again.

Public recognition in life and death

There are many reasons why people like their privacy. However, there are people whom you don’t know that would also pay their respect. They could be a former colleague, a club member, or someone they helped. After all, the funeral is a time for the community to come together and grieve.

Holding a funeral can be costly. Most funeral homes offer pre-need life plan to make the funeral service affordable for everybody. Planning your own funeral might sound morbid; one must remember that it is for the family- not for you.

August 14, 2022
8 Questions You Should Ask to A Funeral Director
Many people feel that they would find it difficult to arrange a funeral for themselves or for a loved one. However, this is not the case. Choosing to work with a funeral director can help to make the experience of arranging a funeral a more comfortable one.

Funeral directors are experts in their field and will be able to guide you through the process of arranging a funeral. They have all the knowledge and experience needed to do this and access to resources that may not be available elsewhere.

It is important to ask the right questions when looking for a funeral director. Ask them about their experience, their fees, and if they have any guarantees. Find out what services they offer and how much time they will spend with you.

Here is a checklist of questions you should ask a funeral director:
- What kind of funerals do you offer?
- How do the prices for your services compared to other funeral homes in your area?
- Do you have a funeral package? What are the inclusions?
- Can I see pictures of your facilities?
- What kind of caskets or urns do you have? Can I buy from another company or funeral home?
- What are documents needed? Can you assist us?
- Do you have a florist that we can work with?
- Would you be there to help us through the process? How can we reach you?
Funeral directors are responsible for the funeral process and they will provide you with all the information you need. They will help you plan the funeral, arrange a date, and make sure that your loved one is buried or cremated.

They want to ensure that you know exactly what is going on so that it doesn’t cause any additional stress for family members who have lost a loved one.

Funerallink has partnered with top funeral homes in the Philippines, ensuring you get the best service you deserve. All of their funeral directors are licensed and trained professionals.
August 7, 2022
Why Saying Goodbye to Someone Who Is Dying is Important

Funerals and memorial services are important to the grieving process. They serve as a time for people who have lost someone close to them to come together and remember their loved ones. These events also provide a time for family members and friends to show their support, love, and care for one another.

When it comes to saying goodbye, most adults find it difficult. You might be scared, and do not want to be too emotional in front of the dying person. It is totally fine to cry and show your emotions.

Here’s why you have to make time to say goodbye to a loved one who is dying:

You won’t regret not saying the things you wish you said to them.

It’s easier to put off an uncomfortable conversation than it is to actually have it. However, with a dying family member or friend, it has to happen. A dying person simply wants to know how much you love them and that you will be alright when they are gone. This is also the time to say sorry and that you have forgiven them if they hurt you.

It’s comforting to console someone who is dying.

Some people are worried to leave the world. They need assurance that you will be okay and the people they care about. Talking about what will happen after their demise can give them peace of mind and comfort. It is also a kind of giving them permission to leave when they are ready.

Know their last wishes.

Take some time to listen to them. You do not have to say or try to stop them from talking. Simply follow their lead and listen. Allow them to express their thoughts and talk about their last wishes.

Know that you are not alone in the process.

You are not alone in the process. Be with your family and closest friends; when visiting a dying person, you might have the opportunity to meet their friends too. You can connect with them and each other to move on.

Spend the last moment with them.

The time might be nearing an end, but do not stop yourself from spending those precious moments with a loved one. It is never too late to create happy moments. Know that they will leave the world physically, but they are with you, in your heart, forever!

Easier for you to let go and move on.

Being with them during their last days allows you to accept that they will soon be gone. You have already started the process of grieving. Knowing their last wishes and you, on the other hand, have said the things you would like to tell them, moving on would be a little bit easier.

Saying goodbye to the person so dear to you is the most painful thing to do. However, some people hold on until they are certain that you will be all right. Reassured and give your last gift by releasing them from their pain and all that concerns them. You can tell them “I will be alright. It is okay for you to go.”

July 25, 2022
How to Prepare for Your Death: 6 Tips to Help Your Loved Ones Emotionally

There are many people who live in denial, but there are also people who have accepted death. It is an inevitable, and hard reality to grasp.

There are many ways to help your family and loved ones accept and anticipate your passing in advance. You can let them know that you will be gone one day, or you can leave them a letter with instructions on what they should do after you have passed.

One of the most important things is to make sure that your family knows how much they mean to you. This way, they will know that you care about them and want the best for them even after death.

Help prepare your loved ones emotionally, here’s how:

Remember to honor and acknowledge those who matter to you the most

Take some time to be with your people. You might not want them to see them crying, but knowing you have limited time, one thing you can do is to be with them while you are still around. Talk about the beautiful moments you have had with them. Those moments will be your greatest gift to them when you are gone. They can look back and think that you have spent your last days with the people they loved the most. And that, you left happy and full of love.

Look back and reflect on your life

Life is a journey. It is about the journey and not about the destination. We all go through different phases in life and each phase teaches us something new. You might have a lot of failures and losses, but count those thousands of wins and successes. Be grateful and celebrate your life. Nobody could have done better, but you.

Write an ethical will

An ethical will is a way to show your loved ones how much you care about them and your wishes for them after you have passed away. It’s also a way to make sure that they know what you want from them before they have to make any difficult decisions on their own.

Make amends and apologize to the people you hurt

Saying sorry is not easy. It takes courage, but it is necessary so will leave the Earth with peace of mind and heart without resentment. This will not only help you but also those people you hurt.

Forgive those who have hurt you

Forgiveness means releasing the past, a willingness to let go of the anger and resentment we hold onto for people who have wronged us. It is the ability to see the person for who they are now, instead of who they were then. After forgiving someone, there is this powerful feeling that you have finally let go of this negative emotion. Pretty sure, the people you forgave feel the same way.

Take a moment with your loved ones to say goodbye

The idea of saying goodbye to a loved one is a hard thing to face. Some people do not have the chance to say goodbye. You are blessed if you have the opportunity to bid farewell to them. You can arrange your own eulogy. It allows your family and closest friends to say their final words while you can still hug and kiss them. It will also help them recover from the loss when the day comes.

It’s not easy to make decisions and choices that will affect your life and the lives of those around you. That’s why it is important to think about your decisions and discuss them with your family.

July 15, 2022
How to Plan Your Own Funeral Benefits Your Family
When you die, your funeral needs to be arranged. The person in charge of arranging the funeral is typically close family members. There are many things to consider such as who will take care of the arrangements, how you want to be remembered, and how much you want to spend. Funerals can be expensive and emotional, so it is important to plan ahead.

If you want to avoid having your loved ones have to make these arrangements, you should discuss your wishes with them and put them in writing. This way they will know what you want and can help you get it done in time before anything happens.

Grieving family members often face a lot of pressure to make decisions about their loved one’s funeral arrangements. Without a plan in place, they may face time constraints and feel pressured to make decisions quickly.

It is common knowledge that funeral planning is not something that many want to think about, but when you do, it’s beneficial for your family that you have a plan in place.

Your grieving family members may not have informed decisions about funeral arrangements for their loved ones. So, planning your own funeral will ensure that everything goes smoothly from start to finish and allow them more time and peace of mind during this difficult time.

Aside from choosing the funeral home, planning such arrangements in advance may include:
- Determine what happens to the remains, including burial or cremation.
- Identify the place of burial, like next to a loved one.
- Let family members know where to spread or keep the ashes.
- Whether or not to give organs to scientific research.
- Choose the type of burial or memorial service. (For example, would you like to have a wake, where would you like it to hold, how many days, etc.? If you would like to be cremated, would you like to have a viewing, what would you like to do with your cremains, etc.)
Planning funeral arrangements entail writing down your wishes in detail. You may wish to give your family members copies of these documents, but you may also want to keep a copy for yourself.

You should write down the following:

– Who will be in charge of your affairs after you die?

– What kind of funeral do you want?

– Do you have any religious or cultural preferences?

– Do you have any specific requests for your burial or cremation?

– How would you like to be remembered by those who are left behind?

By pre-planning your funeral, it would be a good idea to avail of a life plan package, ensuring that their family members do not need to take on the cost. This is especially helpful for people who want to ensure that their family does not need to worry about money after they die.

Funeral arrangements are often a difficult topic to discuss, but it is necessary to make your wishes clear before the time comes. One way is by creating a funeral plan in advance and providing any desired instructions for the funeral service. This ensures that your loved ones know what you want and avoids arguments over funeral details.
July 5, 2022