Funeral Services: Are We Too Busy To Pay Our Respects Respectfully?
February 21st, 2012
I saw this blog post the other day about a drive-thru funeral parlor in Southern California and it got me thinking. We live in such a fast-paced society—always on the go, never taking time to stop and smell the roses—does death not even slow us down?
Are we really at a point that we’re too busy to pay our respects to the family and friends of a loved one when they die? Or is it that society is just so uncomfortable with the ritual of attending a funeral service that this is an easy way out?
I guess everyone has a different idea of what it means to pay their respects. But to me, it’s about offering your condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.
How would I be able to express my sympathy to the family from my car window?
When I attend a funeral service, it’s not just about seeing the body and saying my final farewell to the deceased. It’s about visiting with the family and friends—sharing stories and memories with the people who knew that person best. Through photos, videos and memorabilia, you get a glimpse into that person’s life.
How would I experience that same kind of connection from a drive-thru window?
I also believe the gathering of friends and family is an important part of grieving and healing. Although you’re all technically in mourning, it’s a chance for you to come together and celebrate the life lived.
But I guess that’s me.
Don’t get me wrong, there are many aspects of a fast-paced lifestyle I embrace. I can’t live without my smart phone and having instant access to information; I opt for the drive-thru pharmacy and ATM every time over walking inside; and barely remember a time without DVR where I had to sit through commercials.
But to me, a funeral service is different.
Although on a personal level I don’t see the value in a drive-thru funeral parlor. I obviously respect those who choose to go that route. I just hope it’s not because our society is too busy to take the time to pay respects, respectfully.
What does ‘paying respects’ mean to you? Do you see the value in a drive-thru funeral parlor? I’d love to hear from you! Please share your comments below!
as a florist in Boston, we see more cremations every day along with shorter visiting hours. I think a celebration of life service might be better served in a less formal setting. perhaps have the undertakers adopt the role of party planner as well ?
Good point Rick…and it brings up an interesting question. Is it the formality of a funeral service that people are shying away from? Or are they simply looking for more unique and personalized services?
Good point Rick…and it brings up an interesting question. Is it the
formality of a funeral service that people are shying away from? Or are
they simply looking for more unique and personalized services?
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