The Tradition Of Funerals
By Michelle Bery
Death, unfortunately and inevitably, is a part of the
cycle of life. Of course, this inevitability means that
at one time or another in the course of our lives, we
will be faced with the death of a loved one. At such
times, along with the despair and grief, comes the
necessity of making arrangements. Funerals are a part of
the ceremony of death, varying depending on culture,
religion, and geographical location. But, no matter how
they are performed, funerals share common ground in that
they honor the life and memory of the deceased and offer
a final goodbye for their family.
No funeral is the same, as no person is the same. While
there are generalities to modern funerals, there are
also personal touches added to reflect the unique
personality of the deceased and personalize the
services. Funerals may begin, depending on the family
background, with a wake or viewing. While open casket
viewings continue to be customary, some families choose
to close the casket and instead display pictures of the
deceased.
Funerals will normally also include a service of some
kind. A service can be held at a funeral parlor or in a
church, synagogue, or other place of worship depending
upon the family's particular traditions. Many people
choose to personalize this portion of funerals by
including readings by loved ones or excerpts from poems
or literature that was particularly special to the
deceased.
Other family members choose to have a memorial service
following the burial at a later time. In this way - as
opposed to traditional funerals - loved ones can gather
at any special place they choose to honor the deceased
without the presence of the casket.
The planning of funerals also includes burial services.
There are of course different options when it comes to
burial including family cemetery plots and mausoleums.
There is also the option for cremation after which you
can scatter the ashes in a particularly special place.
Ultimately, funerals are meant to honor the life of
someone you love. Add your special touches to make it a
lovely and lasting memorial.
For easy to understand, in depth information about
funerals visit our ezGuide 2 Funeral. |