GRIEF TIME CAPSULE - by Yasmine Rajabali

What you will need: A capsule (a cylinder container or a storage box that can be locked or tightly secured) Paper Paint or art supplies Writing tools Envelopes A few family members or close friends or the Individual who is impacted by the loss are included in this activity.

Write a Letter: Each individual writes a letter outlining a specific memory, a favorite story, a funny moment, a sad moment, a physical memory, a description of a scent...This letter can also include feelings and things the individual wanted to express about the deceased - feelings of love, anger, sadness, loss etc... The Letter can also outline hopes that the Individual has for themselves and times the deceased is going to be missed. The letter can also thank the deceased for specific 'gifts' received and lessons learned. This letter is to be sealed. A picture can be included in this envelope.

Draw a Picture: Each person is offered to draw or paint a picture. This can be anything that is reminiscent. Each person can include items that remind them of the deceased:

* Favorite perfume/cologne /scent of the individual who has passed
* Favorite color
* Glasses
* Jewelry items
* Scarf/tie * Book(s)
* Music CD's
* Poetry/stories
* Pictures
* Hair brush

Once each individual has specified which items are to enter the capsule, each person is invited to talk about the item in a 'safe circle'. This allows the person grieving to understand what the symbolism of the piece(s) is and remind themselves that this capsule will remain intact, and their memory will be preserved. Once the items are entered into the capsule, it is then stored or buried for a specific amount of time (5-15 years). With Kids I usually have them open it when they get a little older and can understand and are ready...(age 15). This is a great time for children to really remember the scent and read their letters and go back in time. For older children or adults, the time can be determined - a year, 2, 3...