Life is a never ending game, some people say, but the sad fact is that the game does eventually end. And when we shuffle off of this mortal plain, we’d want to do it in style, or do it peacefully. Whatever suits your choices, of course.
How will anyone know your choices though? How can you make sure you’re given the religious service you really want or the most humane burial that would see you in a forest surrounded by nature?
The best way to make sure you get the send-off you deserve and want is to plan your funeral ahead of time while you’re still alive and kicking — and while you’re still able to make decisions.
Planning Your Funerals
There are many things to consider when planning a funeral. Just like planning any other life event (pun fully intended), a wedding, a bar mitzvah, christening, anniversary party, or any other large celebration, planning a funeral can seem overwhelming.
Luckily, there are many companies, such as Exit Here, who will help to ensure your wishes are fulfilled and make sure you recovered financially. But what exactly will you need to plan? Let’s dive into 3 things you may have missed about planning a funeral.
Your Service Choice
Religion is a funny thing. In some cultures, religion can be absolutely central with identities built around faith, but in other cultures, religion is a very private matter.
If you would like a particularly religious service, it’s important to make your feelings known beforehand to ensure that you will be able to have the service in a location that is special to you (such as your local church), and that you will have a send-off officiated by someone you connect with spiritually (such as your vicar).
Your Music Choice
When Sir Elton John penned the Candle In The Wind, thinking about music for funerals wasn’t likely a particularly big part of his plan.
Now in the modern era, there are many options to choose from. From a religious perspective, this includes the classic songs like Jerusalem and How Great Thou Art, or more popular music choices such as Ain’t No Mountain High Enough (Marvin Gaye), and the classic football song, You’ll Never Walk Alone.
Getting your music choice right can really help your family feel close to you and stop that awkward moment where Johnny Cash is played, but you hated Johnny Cash!
Do You Want a Wake?
It’s not always necessary to have a wake, of course. Some people may decide they wish to have a very private funeral with just close friends and family, while others will want a huge do with a wake afterwards.
If you’re looking to have a wake, you’ll need to organize a venue and probably lay out some food for the guests.
Wakes can be a lovely time for long lost family and friends to reconnect. Even in the most difficult times, it can be nice to be surrounded by loved ones.
