What happens after you die has changed so much over the years. Once upon a time you would have a church service for the deceased, the clergy would say many heart felt words about the deceased; whom he would probably have known. There would be special funeral hymns; Abide With Me being a favourite. Everyone would be wearing somber colours and there would be a wake/tea after wards to remember the deceased. The deceased would be buried, occasionally someone would be cremated and be buried in a church yard/cemetery where loved ones would visit regularly and put fresh flowers on your grave on special occasions. At least that was how it was when I was growing up.
Cremations are more popular, nowadays. Anything goes when it comes to clothing worn at a funeral. Here in Canada we can view the body in the days up to the funeral; like a lying in State situation. Music can be anything from the funeral hymns to country music and popular music. The last funeral we went to the great grandchildren and grandchildren drew and wrote messages on the casket/coffin.
Prior to coming to Canada 28 years ago I had only seen one dead body, my grandad and that was only a quick glimpse. Since coming to Canada I have seem numerous dead people, even watched someone take their last breath. It seems to be more open and welcoming, and more involved here in Canada. When I think of funerals in Britain they are a more staid somber affair.
I swore I would never get cremated, but over time I have changed my tune. I know that our children love us to bits, but I also know they would never visit us if we were buried somewhere. Realistically they are busy people and it would just be another job for them to do by making the trip to the cemetery once or twice a year. I would rather they remember us as we were and when they think of something that reminds them of us.
Things have changed when it comes to remembering the dead. What are your thoughts and have you changed your ideas on what will happen to yourself after you die?
On a lighter note. The kids gave me an envelope for Christmas, I opened it and the first thing I saw were the words URN INSERT. My first thought was, "do I look that sick?" However upon further reading it was a membership for this from here:
I get four seasonal inserts for a pot/urn for the garden. It has nothing to do with death!!!
