I’ve been to at least three funerals in the past year. It’s something that we all dread. Not death, but going to a funeral. My daddy told me a long time ago that “you have to bury your dead”. It was in response to me saying that “I just don’t like going to funerals”. People that actually enjoy funerals are, to be honest, few and far between. It’s simply not the kind of gathering anyone should enjoy. Or should we?
It’s a fact that funerals are for the living. The rituals, the music, the flowers and the eulogy are all parts of the grieving process for those left behind. All of the traditional things that seem to be geared towards making us cry. Things like touching the dead body can be very important for some people. I’ve heard it said that you’ll dream of them if you don’t touch them. I generally take my chances on that one.
Through the ages, different cultures have put their loved ones to rest in a myriad of ways. The ancient Egyptians erected the pyramids for their pharaohs and various royalty. I’d be hard pressed to make the down payment on that particular plan. The multitude of different Native Americans did above ground, in-ground, cave tombs and mounds. The Vikings liked to place their people upon a floating beir and set it aflame. Most cultures leave items with those they put to rest. It could be jewelry, armor, swords, eating utensils, horses or cattle. Some even send their wife, or wives to the great beyond with them. I think that’s a bit too far. Not really fair to her, either.
No matter the ritual or ceremony, one thing we humans have in common at a funeral: we commemorate a life that has left this realm. We all deserve to have people that love us gather together and give us a sendoff into the Great Beyond. It doesn’t have to be fancy. It doesn’t have to follow what society may deem correct. It just has to be a group of friends and relatives that come to say “goodbye and I’m glad you were here”.
I’m writing my own eulogy. I’m picking my own music, too. It’s going to be songs that I love, not necessarily music you’d expect at a funeral. Stuff that you know I liked. Some Johnny Cash, and definitely Don Williams. I’d like to know that there was laughter and stories about stupid things I’d done, from people who will miss me when I’m gone. I have a friend that used to babysit my kids that will stand in the back, during the funeral, and be silent. She’ll be dressed as the Grim Reaper. Don’t forget, Misty! You promised. I still haven’t found a comedian. I’ll work on it. So, in the event of my untimely death, ya’ll come on by. It’ll be a blast. For you guys, at least. I won’t exactly be the life of the party. One thing’s for sure, it’ll be a funeral neither of us will forget.
Rolling Stones 