Talking about Death and Dying
I’m constantly impressed by human relationships and how often we learn new things about people. Conversations with even your closest relatives – family members you have known your entire life – will occasionally reveal something you hadn’t heard before. At some point, one or more of those conversations should be centered on life as a whole, including talking about death.
The Talk of a Lifetime is one of the most important conversations you need to have with loved ones. Have the Talk of a Lifetime is a program of the Funeral and Memorial Information Council. It encourages families to have meaningful discussions about life and what matters most. Cherished memories of key people, places and events are a big part of who we are. Hearing about the experiences, values and beliefs of a loved one who is nearing the end of his or her life can help families make important decisions about how to remember and honor that life. This includes determining whether direct cremation and an end-of-life celebration, cremation with a memorial, or traditional burial and church service is the preference of your loved one.
The discussion is not only important for the ones who will be left behind. It can benefit the person who is the focus of the conversation, as well. I like how the Have the Talk of a Lifetime website puts it: Deep down, most of us want to know that we, in some way, made a difference in this world. Expressing your thoughts, feelings and wishes will only strengthen the impact you make on the people you care about most.
Starting the conversation isn’t always easy. That’s why there’s a free brochure available for download at talkofalifetime.org. A workbook is also available so you have a place to write down the responses or use it as a guide for the conversation. There you will also find helpful suggestions and answers to frequently asked questions.
Best Cremation Care provides affordable cremation services throughout the Bay Area (San Francisco, Oakland / Alameda, and San Jose / Santa Clara) and Southern California (Los Angeles, Long Beach, Orange County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, and San Diego County). We are a licensed funeral establishment and have an A+rating from the Better Business Bureau.
