I have the good fortune of being a part of a supportive and caring family. When my father died some years back, we were able to mutually support and look after each other. By his choice, he was cremated, and, in place of a casket, were several pictures of him throughout his life gather as a memorial. And after the wake, we all went to his favorite pub and drank one last round for him. There were tears, fond memories recalled, and, above all, a feeling of closure that helped us all, particularly my mom. Not quite sitting shiva, but helpful nonetheless.
As a believer, I do think that there is hope beyond the grave, so I don't object to phrases like "passing on." But I agree that it can simply be nothing more than a euphemism, a way of evading, rather then accepting, the reality of death. For death, even with the hope of resurrection, is still painful to deal with. Jesus himself wept at the graveside of his friend.
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branchandroot
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Date: 2011-01-26 06:37 pm (UTC)As a believer, I do think that there is hope beyond the grave, so I don't object to phrases like "passing on." But I agree that it can simply be nothing more than a euphemism, a way of evading, rather then accepting, the reality of death. For death, even with the hope of resurrection, is still painful to deal with. Jesus himself wept at the graveside of his friend.
Thanks, Wendy, for a thoughtful and moving post.