Death, despite being the one certainty in life, remains one of the most taboo topics in many societies. However, a growing movement known as "death positivity" seeks to change this narrative by encouraging open discussions and acceptance of mortality. But what exactly does it mean to be "death positive"?
At its core, being death positive means embracing death as a natural and inevitable part of life, rather than something to be feared or avoided. It involves confronting our own mortality and acknowledging the reality of death, not with dread, but with acceptance and even celebration. This movement encourages conversations about death, dying, and grief, aiming to destigmatize these topics and promote a healthier relationship with the end of life.
One of the key principles of the death positive movement is the belief that death is a normal part of the human experience and should be acknowledged and respected as such. By embracing death, individuals can gain a deeper appreciation for life, recognizing its fragility and impermanence. This perspective encourages people to live more fully, to cherish their loved ones, and to pursue their passions and dreams without the shadow of fear hanging over them.
Another important aspect of death positivity is advocating for more open and transparent discussions about end-of-life care and planning. This includes conversations about advance directives, funeral arrangements, and other practical matters related to death. By addressing these topics openly and honestly, individuals can ensure that their wishes are known and respected, relieving the burden on their loved ones during times of grief and decision-making.
It’s important to note that being death positive does not mean being indifferent to death or denying the pain of loss. Grief and mourning are natural responses to death, and the death positive movement recognizes the importance of allowing individuals the space and support to process their emotions in their own way. However, by embracing death as a natural part of life, this movement seeks to empower individuals to confront their fears and anxieties surrounding death, ultimately fostering a greater sense of peace and acceptance.
In a society that often shies away from discussions about death, the death positive movement offers a refreshing and much-needed perspective. By encouraging open conversations, advocating for end-of-life planning, and challenging cultural taboos, this movement invites us to embrace our mortality and live more fully in the present. In doing so, we can find comfort, meaning, and even beauty in the cycle of life and death, enriching our lives and relationships in the process.
Planning a funeral or cremation—whether for a loved one or preplanning for yourself—can feel overwhelming. There are many decisions to make, all while navigating the emotions that come with loss. But with a little preparation and guidance, the process can be meaningful, healing, and manageable. Whether you're planning ahead or handling arrangements after a loss, this guide walks you through the key steps of planning a funeral or cremation service. 1. Decide Between Burial and Cremation One of the first decisions to make is whether the individual will be buried or cremated. This choice often depends on personal, cultural, or religious preferences. Burial typically involves a casket, a graveside service, and a cemetery plot. Cremation may still include a funeral or memorial service and allows for more flexible options such as scattering, keeping an urn, or burying cremated remains. Some families choose direct cremation (without a service) or direct burial and hold a memorial at a later time. 2. Decide on the Type of Service There are many ways to honor a life, including: Traditional funeral service (usually with the body present) Memorial service (typically after cremation or burial) Celebration of life (a more personalized, informal event) Services can take place at the funeral home, a place of worship or outdoors. Choose what best reflects the person’s life and what brings comfort to those attending. 3. Select the Details You’ll want to personalize the service with details such as: Obituary and newspaper or online notices Casket or urn selection Music, readings, or spiritual elements Photos, videos, or displays of personal items Flowers or charitable donation options Who will speak, perform, or participate Many families also choose to include military honors, religious traditions, or cultural customs. 4. Consider Final Resting Place Options For burials: Choose a cemetery and purchase a plot if one isn’t already owned Decide on a headstone or grave marker For cremation: Decide whether ashes will be kept, scattered, buried, or placed in a niche Some families divide ashes among keepsake urns or jewelry 5. Handle Legal and Practical Matters Don’t forget the necessary paperwork: Obtain a death certificate (you may need multiple copies) Notify Social Security and financial institutions Handle wills, trusts, and estate matters If applicable, coordinate with veterans’ services or insurance providers Funeral directors can help guide you through most of this, but having documents organized in advance can ease the burden. 6. Consider Preplanning Preplanning your own arrangements relieves your loved ones of decision-making during an emotional time. You can: Specify burial or cremation preferences Choose the type of service and location Prepay or set aside funds Record personal touches you’d like included Preplanning ensures your wishes are followed—and it brings peace of mind to everyone involved. While planning a funeral or cremation is never easy, it is an opportunity to reflect, remember, and celebrate a life. Whether you’re planning for the future or coping with a loss today, take each step at your own pace, and don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals or trusted loved ones for support.
Our pets become cherished members of our families, providing unconditional love, companionship, and joy to our lives. When they pass away, the grief we feel is genuine and profound. While our furry friends are only here for a short time, the impact they have on our lives is monumental. Here are some ways you can honor your beloved furry friend, after they’ve pass.
Create a memory box.
Putting together a box of items that remind you of a beloved pet can help you cope with their loss. Include items such as their collar, favorite toy, paw imprint, fur lock, and anything else that meant a lot to them. Keeping these items can bring comfort and closure after they have passed.
Spread their ashes somewhere meaningful.
If you choose to have your pet cremated, you can spread the ashes somewhere meaningful for your pet. You can even use the ashes to plant a tree in memory of them.
Donate to shelters in their memory
Animal shelters need donations, whether monetary donations or item donations. Donating to shelters in your beloved pet's name not only preserves your pet's memory, but also helps the animals in the shelter find their forever home.
Foster animals
Fostering is a great option if you aren't ready to get another pet but want to share the love you had for your pet with those in need. Because shelters fill up quickly, animals need foster homes. Fostering allows you to heal at your own pace, while sharing love with a pet in need.
Our pets become part of our family. During their time here on earth we share so many special moments with them, that when they are gone the emptiness left behind is unfathomable. It’s important to take proper care of yourself during this time of grief and figure out ways to keep your pet’s memory alive.