Like millions of people around the world, i watched Michael Jackson's memorial service at Staples Center. The thing that struck me was his casket-a gold/brass plated coffin, costing an estimated US$25,000. I thought he was broke.
I do not begrudge the Jackson family wanting to say goodbye to their son in the fashion he wanted. I hope he left some instructions in his will/papers about his final wishes. If anything it reflects the brilliant entertainer that he was.
I remember his music from the 70's and 80's, as he grew in talent and stature.
I choose to focus on positive memories. Yes he was an accused child molester, and his personal life was a mess. But who are we to judge the selection of a gold plated casket?
The point i want to make today is this. One of the ways to express love to our families is to prepare them for our departure from this earth. Please let them know your wishes-in writing-how you want to be remembered. Learn about the ins and outs of cremation vs. burial. Do you want a service with as open casket, or do you want a gathering at a funeral home? How about a party at a pub?
Some years ago i was a "preneed counselor". I tried to sell cemetery plots for a cemetary operated by Dignity Memorial/Service Corporation International. I learned a lot about the selling of funerals and stuff. If you can, avoid doing business with anyone associated with "Dignity Memorial". Watch your wallet.
Check out some of these resources: funeral.org, forestlawn.com, dignitymemorial.com for more info on how to plan for something that is certain to happen.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
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