I have no fear of death. I am sure I will be surprised, disappointed that there were things I had hoped to do, that will be left undone. But I see little reason to prolong the dying process. "To die, to sleep, to sleep perchance to dream," I have no concerns about what lies after life.
What to do with this mortal coil? I greatly dislike the the stuffed guy in a box funerals that have dominated the United States almost 200 years in the USA. Rolling me off the side of the road, to feed the critters is not an option in the USA. So incinerate what is left. Then I really don't care what happens with the cremains. Toss them in the River, or off the side of a cruise ship. I really don't care.
The celebration of life was a first time model for me. It was a private event, hosted in a live music venue, with buffet food, and a cash bar. Loved one's spoke, a family member performed live music, old friends - one dating back to school days, spoke. There was lots of conversation, more hugs than tears. A DJ played background music and controlled the stage lights (Larry was a live music fan.) Dress was casual, with a reminder to wear your favorite concert T-shirt. It was comfortable. It provided closure, without the usual religion filled sadness.
Would that work for me? I don't know. Larry had a larger social network than I do. Maybe fly in a dozen bloggers for steaks and really good bourbon. Finally something to do with the bottle of Forged Oak in the cabinet in the dining room. But I would really sooner be around to sample the golden nectar - come for a visit why don'tya? Celebrate that I was here, not cry over my being gone.
I am full on reincarnation and scatter the ash.
ReplyDeleteNo funeral, just stories and laughs and music.
Remember I was a smartass and a riot.
And also remember , I'll be back.
Destined to come back as a smartly dressed black and white cat.
DeleteI would quite like that.
DeleteI've been wondering the same thing about how long I still have. I don't want a wake or funeral. My kids know that I should be cremated and tossed into my favorite spot on the river in my city. If they want to gather and share some laughs about me, they can if they want.
ReplyDeleteIt really helps if everyone knows what we want.
DeleteI often think about this too. I'm 59, and it's hard to know how many years I might have left, but I think I'd do well to get 20. More than that would be a gift, but certainly possible. Or I could go next year. Who knows?!
ReplyDeleteI think there are "body farms" in the USA where you can essentially be laid out in a forest to feed nature. I am intrigued by that idea, grisly as it sounds.
Feed the critters and compost
DeletePlease supply me with scotch rather than bourbon, and I'll be there.
ReplyDeleteThere is a really good bottle of Irish single malt.
DeleteIf I live another day, I do. If a die tomorrow, I die. I figure its life, I stopping think about it and go back to my boys!!!! Course with my iron immune system and freaky health, and gin , at this rate I may live to be over 100.
ReplyDeletePreserved with gin?
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