Inspiring Words on Legacy

Inspiring words to ponder...

"Everyone must leave something behind when he dies, my grandfather said. A child or a book or a painting or a house or a wall built or a pair of shoes made. Or a garden planted. Something your hand touched some way so your soul has somewhere to go when you die, and when people look at that tree or that flower you planted, you’re there. It doesn’t matter what you do, he said, so as long as you change something from the way it was before you touched it into something that’s like you after you take your hands away.” – Ray Bradbury, Fahrenheit 451 

Today I have mostly been reflecting on how perfect a song "Stardust" is, sung by Nat King Cole. We used it as a song for reflection in today's ceremony. Just beautiful...

What Is It Like To Be A Funeral Director?

The sharp eyed amongst you (actually, a casual glance should be sufficient) may have noticed a column to the right of this text with a link to other blogs (although, to be accurate, right now its a link to one other blog - more will follow!). There are some amazing conversations taking place about death on the internet and one of the most inspiring is "Confessions of a Funeral Director", written by Caleb Wilde. As an independent funeral celebrant, a big part of my role is find exactly the right words to express the thoughts, beliefs, wishes of the family - Caleb's writing is quite inspirational in this regard. His writing offers an incredible insight into the business of a funeral director. Tackling head on some incredibly challenging topics, with a clarity and balance that is often moving, sometimes funny and always interesting. I hesitate to highlight particular posts, since different subjects will resonate with each of you, but as a starting point, take a look at '10 burdens Funeral Directors Carry' or 'A Bleeping Day in the Funeral Business'. Hope it inspires you as much as it does me...

Today I have been mostly been listening to Tony Bennett, "I left my heart in San Francisco"; its booked for a lovely ceremony next week.

Where Will Your Funeral be?

Where will your funeral be? Just for now, we’ll set aside the fact that most of us don’t discuss this with our nearest and dearest (even though it would be rather helpful if we did), and focus instead on the choices.

First question is ‘where’? If you have a strong faith, then a religious building will be the obvious choice. Religious buildings are evocative spaces; often ancient, places that have seen all the joy and sadness of life acted out over generations. Simply entering a church is a ritual act, as you leave the hustle and bustle of life behind and move into a sacred space.

Words of Inspiration

"Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - wine in one hand, chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "woo-hoo, what a ride!"

Love these words - what a great philosophy! Not sure of the source, so if you know the author's name, do let me know...