Holocaust Memorial Day 2015

Image taken from hmd.org.uk

Yesterday was Holocaust Memorial Day, which marked the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the Aushwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. Candles were lit in Liverpool Town Hall every day on the run up to memorial day.

 

Not only are there events this month in remembrance of those who died during the Holocaust but people who were killed in genocides in Bosnia, Rwanda and Darfur. Across the UK people are ensuring that future generations never forget the awful persecution that so many have faced in the past. Take some time to search for events in your area and read the stories of those who were wrongly persecuted during the Holocaust. Whilst almost 6 million Jewish people were murdered in the death camps, other groups were targeted such as the disabled, political rivals and homosexuals amongst many more. Altogether almost eleven million people were murdered under the Nazi regime.

Image taken from flickr.com

This is still a significant event for many today and there is an obvious national grief. Through this grief we can educate people about the horrors populations have been subjected to in the past and in some places, are still being subjected to today. The only way to move forward is to learn from the past and never forget what happened during each of the genocides that took place.

 

There are a number of events being held this January to remember those who were lost during this time of great suffering, including a number of film screenings and talks at the Museum of Liverpool. Follow this link to find out what events are being run by the National Museums of Liverpool: http://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/events/holocaust-memorial-day-listings.aspx

 

Search online for events happening near you throughout January and February.

New Resolutions for a New Year?

Happy New Year from The Bucket Project! Hopefully you had an enjoyable time over the holidays.

 

Image from 1234newyear.com

In December I wrote a post encouraging you to visit those you care about that may be lonely or find Christmas a difficult period, as your time can often be the most valuable present. It turns out that I had to take my own advice over the holidays after an unexpected bereavement in the family. Admittedly, I was nervous before approaching the difficult and sometimes awkward conversation of ‘giving my condolences’. What do you say? What don’t you say? Whilst there might be obvious choices that would not be appropriate in that particular situation, your presence and a listening ear can really provide reassurance and some consolation.

 

I realise more than ever, the importance of being inquisitive and asking questions about your loved one’s lives or upbringing. A year ago I suggested creating a ‘Memory Book’ together with your family or children to record special events and memorable moments, you can view it HERE. Whilst this is a fabulous way of making new memories, why not give older loved ones a book where they can tell their story? You can buy pre-made examples online from a number of sources or you can personalise your own with questions such as:

 

• How did you feel when I was born?
• Tell me about a memorable Christmas in your childhood.
• What was school like?

 

Any of these questions will give you an insight in to the lives of close friends and family prior to your relationship with them. Often people have so many interesting stories to tell, which would be lovely to keep as a reminder of them after they have passed.

 

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Maybe this year when making resolutions, we could think about those we care about a little more. Instead of changing aesthetical aspects of ourselves such as losing weight, we think about a change on the inside. How about making a conscious effort to consider ways we can help others, such as picking up shopping for an elderly friend or spending an hour with someone we love.

 

I hope that 2015 is a happy and prosperous year for everyone and that people can find the strength and support they need when difficult times arise.

 

If you have been struggling to cope with bereavement or grief, below are some websites you may find helpful:

Dying Matters
Macmillan
Marie Curie