Mother's Day can be a sad time for those people whose mothers are no longer living. There are many ways to honor a deceased mother or grandmother on Mother's Day, though, and to keep her memory alive within your family and the circle of friends who also loved her.

Talk about your mother with people who remember her ' go over happy and touching memories, funny stories, and special family moments from the past. Try not to dwell on the sad parts of your family history ' Mother's Day should be a time to celebrate your mother's life and achievements.

Bring out pictures of your mother, and show them to other family members, with a request that they hold her image in their minds as they celebrate Mother's Day.

Ask your family members to contribute their own memories of your mother. If your children were very young when she passed away, talking about their grandmother frequently may help them to remember her as they grow older.

Consider taking flowers to your mother's grave, if it is close by. Even if you believe that the spirit of your loved one does not stay in the place where she is buried, laying some flowers on her grave may make you feel closer to her.

Spend some time alone if you can, thinking about your own childhood, and remembering your mother in your own special way. No matter what your spiritual beliefs are, a few minutes of quiet meditation can help to keep your memories of your mother alive.

Do something your mother would have enjoyed on Mother's Day. If she loved to garden, visit a local botanical garden or nursery. If she loved the water, take a walk on the beach with your family.

Give a Mother's Day donation to your mother's favorite charity in her name. This is a wonderful way to help others while honoring her memory.