Losing a loved one can be extremely difficult.  In addition to dealing with emotions, people are often left with a lot of "stuff" to go through.

Here are a few pointers to help sort through a loved one's items:

Don't rush things.  Mourning a loss takes time; you don't want to make any rash decisions.  Once the item is gone, you can't get it back.

Item in, item out. For every item you decide to keep, try to discard an item from your home.  Bringing too many of your loved one's items into your home might overwhelm you.

A picture's worth a thousand words.  When possible, try to preserve the memory associated with an item by taking a digital photo.  It takes up less space and reduces clutter. 

Search for treasures.  Working on an estate can be like a treasure hunt.  Love letters, old photos, and special memorabilia can make the tremendous effort worthwhile.

Ask for help.  Sorting through the items of a loved one is easier when done with a family member or friend.  If you don't have the time, live too far away or find the process too emotional, consider hiring a professional organizer to help.

The first time you sort through the "stuff" someone has left behind does not have to be the last.  As time passes, we gain perspective and it becomes easier to let go.