Bhakti as Continuing Relationship

In bhakti tradition, devotion is relational—an ongoing dialogue with the beloved. This transforms how we support grieving children: rather than "moving on" or "letting go," children can actively maintain relationship with someone deceased. This might include rituals (lighting candles, visiting graves, creating altars), storytelling that keeps the person alive in memory, or spiritual practices dedicated to honoring them. Mirabai's devotion to Krishna was passionate and alive; similarly, a child's connection to a lost parent, sibling, or friend need not diminish. This concept resists the Western model of "closure" and instead supports children in learning that love persists, relationships transform, and the deceased remain part of a child's inner world. These practices provide structure, meaning, and agency—allowing young people to actively love someone they've lost.