The traditional funeral service is going away and it is not likely to return. Funerals are now so disconnected with our modern society that combined with the fact that there is a need for new nonreligious narratives, there is no option but for funerals to evolve.
In contrast to the traditional funeral's long-standing focus on sadness and grief, a living funeral examines how we can nurture what is best within ourselves and our society to create a happy and fulfilling life.
One option is the living funeral, which takes place while the person is still alive. Living funerals are gatherings that are centered around those who are terminal or otherwise know they will soon die. A living funeral can range from a formal tribute to a “roast” type of atmosphere. A living funeral can be a meaningful experience that benefits the psychological state of the person passing and his or her loved ones. Sometimes, the living funeral can serve the business purpose of reading the will and the reasoning behind it. A living funeral can also serve the purpose of the reading of the ethical will, or will that states what the person dying wishes for his family members.
Under these circumstances, the family can arrange a “Funeral Reunion” or ‘Funeral Party” for their loved ones to attend prior to death becoming imminent. Similar to the wedding reception tradition, it is best planned by the family themselves.
When planning traditional funerals, families are often pressured to keep their funeral events brief, but with living funerals, there is no need to be concise - after all when one has gathered the entire family together one should allow plenty of time for quality time - stories, discussions, meals, and sharing. Some living funeral gatherings can be joyous, extensive 4-day weekends to exotic destinations or resorts, lighthearted family reunions, or quaint picnics with those closest to one who is departing. National parks and eco destinations are gaining ground as locations for end-of-life ceremonies, satisfying the needs of the contemporary family.
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