Story Behind Our Sympathy Gift Box
Every now and then, I have this feeling that I am supposed to do something. Well, this deep feeling arose two weeks ago when a friend suggested an idea for creating a grief box. It was said in passing; so I waved it off. However, the idea wouldn’t let me rest. I was a bit nervous to start something like this, but I knew I had to. This year, many of my closest friends have dealt with the aching loss of losing someone they loved dearly. Two of my dearest friends, Miranda and Carissa, have each lost a child, and graciously decided to help me collaborate on creating a beautiful, healing, sympathy gift box. My friend, Carissa, chose the special name, “Hope Box” which was after her own sweet Hope who is now heaven bound. Prayers, tears, and making the most of painful loss, has been at the pinnacle of this project. The hard part would be next. Choosing what goes into our box.
Considering what items would hold the most meaning and nourish the soul of someone, was carefully selected for this box. Our first idea was to give one something uplifting to plant and be reminded of the beauty in the world. A sunflower has always been one of my favorite flowers, and its the epitome of brighter days ahead. Therefore, we chose these hand-crafted sunflower seed packets that we had custom designed. This sweet company called Glorias Garden on Etsy makes them, and we chose the packet to read the words: Plant these. Watch them grow. Smile when you see them bloom. Always remember the joy.
Our second choice was based on my friend, Miranda, since she claimed her journal that she used to write down memories of her son, was her most cherished gift she received. So we added a memory journal to the box; so that others could heal their hearts by writing about their loved one.
Further, in our endeavors to find inspiring bookmarks to accompany our journal, we stumbled upon an amazing company called, The Daily Grace Co. that created exactly what we needed. They are these very special grief verse cards that have two sides of unique scriptures and sayings. These cards hold so much meaning and purpose which make them a perfect addition to our box.
Since faith is important, our desire was to gently remind those who received a box to be encouraged and nourished. Thus, choosing a dainty feather necklace, worn to represent the scripture Psalm 91:4, “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge” was perfect. The sweetest company, Tiny Tokens Co, creates these incredible, uplifting necklaces that fit our specific purpose perfectly! It is our hope that something so small can help heal an aching heart.
One the hardest parts of grief is the constant amount of tears that are shared. We wanted to add this delicate, floral-designed tissue for tears that will catch those in the hard, quiet moments of grief. Comfort may only be for short time, but with each item, it is our hope that one will feel support and love inside their Hope Box.
With each heartfelt item added, every box was thoughtfully prepared and prayed over. At the hardest times of our lives, a meaningful gift can be just what a friend or loved one needs. It is our hope that these sympathy boxes will touch the hearts of those who receive one and be encouraged. We would love for you to share your thoughts with us, so leave a comment below.
