Losing a loved one – whether it’s a spouse, a sibling, or even a treasured pet – is never easy, but it is a fact of life. And celebrating the love you shared can help with healing.

One of our Tapestry at Wesbook Village employees was inspired by the celebration of life for a dear friend, and recently planned a “Lanterns of Love” event for Tapestry residents and employees.

The event included the release of specially designed and biodegradable wood and paper lanterns, adorned with loving handwritten messages, which were then lit and floated into the sky in honour of those who had passed.

“My best friend passed away in a tragic accident, and when speaking of how she wanted to be remembered she had talked about a scene in a movie where they set off paper lanterns,” says Paige Farquharson, Wellness Supervisor, Tapestry at Wesbrook Village. “I organized her celebration of life, and the act of releasing the lanterns helped me with the grief of losing her.”

The timing of the Tapestry event, on February 15, 2024, was also something Paige was thoughtful about. “I know Valentine’s Day can be difficult for those who have lost their loved ones,” she says. “I chose the day after Valentine’s Day so that we could all take the time to not only grieve those we have lost, but also to celebrate the love that we had.” Paper lanterns are also used to commemorate Lunar New Year, which this year took place on February 10.

Paige says she wanted to create an event that was meaningful, but not too serious. Tapestry employees set up a tent, had music playing, and had chairs and blankets handy so that those participating would be comfortable.

“It was beautiful to see the different reactions,” Paige says. “Some found it sorrowful, some just sat and processed, while others were dancing and celebrating. It felt quite deep and meaningful,” she adds.

Nan, who has lived at Tapestry at Wesbrook Village for eight years, released her lantern for her late husband Jay who she says would have loved the event. “It was spiritual. That’s the kind of thing he would have liked,” she says.

Nan adds that she enjoyed the experience of releasing the lanterns as a group. “We were all sharing the commonality of releasing a lantern for someone we loved,” she says. “Some people could view it as sad, but I viewed it as a joyful occasion in some ways, because we were celebrating love.”

The celebration even attracted a local photographer who happened to be in the area, and who was so taken with the release of the lanterns that he took several group and individual photos which he shared with Tapestry.

At Tapestry, we love to celebrate the rich and meaningful life experiences of the people who live here, present and past. We also seek to provide events and activities centred around our 7 Dimensions of Wellness, which include emotional and spiritual. If you are looking for an active retirement living community for independent seniors, please contact us and we would be pleased to host you for lunch and a tour.

 

Photos: Courtesy of Richard Cam