“In lieu of”—what does that phrase mean to you?  We typically see this phrase in funeral announcements that says “In lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted” for a particular religious or charity organization. 

 I wonder if you would consider “in lieu of” in an alternative way; one that acknowledges the grieving person and family in a lasting manner?  Of course, the various funeral flower arrangement services, 1-800-Flowers, FTD.com, Teleflora, Funeralflowers.com, all provide lovely floral tributes.  But what expresses your sentiments to the family after the flowers have faded?

The Grief Interlude Series contains compassionate expressions of caring concern inviting listeners to step into the stillness of a guided meditation. The meditations are designed to offer a brief respite and restorative interlude from grieving the loss of a love one. They may enhance the listener’s ability to reduce stress, provide inner calm and improve day-to-day coping skills.