Maggie Arnold's video: Memorial Balloon Release for my Mother

edit: Before making rude comments, please note that this was several years ago. At the time of my research, public awareness campaigns about this weren't prevalent, as they are now. Not long after, California even passed a law limiting 'balloon flights' with messages educating the public of its adverse effects on the environment. Of course if it were today, I would not do the balloon flight. *** My mother did not want a funeral or formal service because she didn't want people to "fuss" over her. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to discuss the importance of rituals in our society and how they are really for the benefit of those of us "left behind". So, when I read about the ritual of the memorial balloon release, I knew it was right. I've always said I was born with sand on my feet. My earliest recollection of life is playing on the seashore with my mother. So, on behalf of my sister and I, it made sense to return to the ocean to say good-bye and "release" her to God. For us, it symbolizes letting go of, not just our mother, but of any resentments, doubts, guilt or any of those things that keep us from moving forward the way we need to. It symbolizes freeing mom from her earthly home and releasing her to God's care. It symbolizes our commitment to let go of the darkness of despair and turn our eyes toward the light of grace. It symbolizes letting go of the past so that we can take hold of the future and embrace it. In my research, I learned that our society is losing its relationship with ritual, which can help heal deep wounds, give expression to feelings of loss, joy or sorrow and help us feel connected to people who have come before and will come after. I believe in the healing power of rituals like writing, poetry, song, journal work or other symbolic forms to help "let go" of ideas or events that hurt or may even be symbolic for letting a loved one go and moving on with our own lives. Ritual brings emotional and spiritual healing. And it helps to honor and celebrate life. This was simple enough that I think my mother would approve, yet powerful in it's ability to bring closure when there is no other means like the services that we normally depend on to usher us through that portal between closure and healing. RIP mom. Indeed, she is in a better place.