This week brings Yom Kippur — a time for reflection, forgiveness, and remembering the fragility of our lives. For me, this season is tender. A close friend is nearing the end of her life. Others in my circle are grieving sudden losses. And I notice in myself the fears that come with aging, living alone, and facing how much change is always present.
In Judaism, when someone dies, we often say: “May their memory be a blessing.” I’ve always loved this. It’s not only a wish, but also an invitation — to let the memory of our loved ones keep blessing us.
One way to honor that is through a MEMORY BOX: write down a happy memory of someone you love on a slip of paper and place it inside. On days when grief feels heavy, reach in and let yourself be surprised by the joy of a moment that still belongs to you.
Photo by Sixteen Miles Out
As Scarlett Johansson recently reflected about grief, it’s impossible to navigate alone. Her words ring true: loss is universal, and yet our culture often keeps us silent about it. When we share our grief and our fears — instead of hiding them — we begin to dissolve that sense of alienation.
What I’m learning is that friendship, compassion, and community don’t erase sadness, but they remind us we are not carrying it alone. This week, I invite you to name your grief or fear out loud to someone you trust. And just as importantly — to share a happy memory, so that love continues to ripple forward.
A Simple Ritual
Light a candle in honor of someone you love. Whisper their name. Place your hand on your heart and say:
“May your memory be a blessing. May the love we shared guide my steps.”
Then, write down a happy memory and place it in your MEMORY BOX (You can buy or make one. Feel free to decorate in any way you want.) Over time, this becomes a well you can return to whenever grief feels too heavy.
Let this be a week to create new happy memories!!
With love & blessings,
Barbara