At the Cremation Society of Northern Kentucky, we have been answering questions from grieving families in Northern Kentucky for generations. Over the years, many of these questions have changed. Now, we get more questions regarding cremations and “celebrations of life.” Some questions, however, have remained similar or the same.
One area or question that remains deals with why we have traditional funerals, and what is their value? Here’s a closer look at traditional funerals and the role they play.
They Provide Structure for Mourning
A traditional funeral provides a specific place and time to grieve the deceased. It allows friends and relatives to gather and share warm and even humorous stories. This gathering of and sharing of stories can be valuable in its healing power.
It Is a Thoughtful Way to Say Goodbye
One of the powers of a traditional funeral is that it provides a vehicle to say goodbye. Whether you haven’t seen the deceased in years or chatted with them recently, a traditional funeral provides closure.
Final Services Honor Their Life
A funeral serves as a final tribute to the person who has passed. Those in attendance may learn a bit more about their likes, hobbies, and travels. Their military service can be recognized, as well as their charitable works. It provides a fuller, more detailed view of the person’s life and those he or she has impacted.
Attendees Can Express Themselves in Their Own Way
A funeral allows a person to attend visiting hours, a final service, and even perhaps the burial. They can send flowers, express sympathy with a card, or make a contribution to a favored cause. Today, you can often leave condolences online.
Traditional Funerals Are Helpful for Children
It may seem counter-intuitive, but traditional funerals provide multiple long-term benefits for children who are grieving. They can experience death in a controlled and structured circumstance with plenty of support. It offers a chance to ask questions and face reality. It can help promote acceptance and demonstrate the power of family and the support of friends.
Adjusting with the Times
Of course, traditional funerals have changed through the years. There is more acceptance of cremations, and most funerals are less dark and solemn than they were even just a few decades ago. What they have in common, however, is still powerful.
Final services allow friends and family to share tears and smiles of fond memories. It provides an opportunity for a meaningful, respectful goodbye. It is an important part of the path to healing and closure.
Traditional funerals provide lots of value. Whether you are pre planning or are in current need of our services, we would be honored to help you with your options.
Contact us at the Cremation Society of Northern Kentucky. Our professional, caring staff is here to assist you. Please feel free to reach out to us with your questions.
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