Burial Services for Seniors
The old adage, nothing is more certain than death and taxes, is not to be taken lightly for it is time proven that we will exit this world and be sent off with burial services, either prepared by clergy, a spiritual leader or a grief stricken family member. When I was young, these burial rituals were very elaborate and indeed not a celebration of life, but a prestigious presentation to the community establishing a certain standing among our peers. I remember my mother and her sisters secretly counting the attendance at my Grandfather's service, nodding to each other in approval. We begin very early in life attending burial services; for grandparents, parents, friends and loved ones. Some of the services we have witnessed over the years stand out in our memories, while others leave us wondering if the departed were ever truly known or loved by their families.
As a minister, I have been called upon to officiate at many services for the elderly. People who journeyed through life building families, taking part in their community and watching grown children move away. Seniors, who retired and played but as the years crept by began attending more funeral services for friends and family. Eventually they too depart in death and the adult children come home to deal with grief and the order of a burial service. For most of these families no written or verbal instructions have been left so they are presented with what seems to be an overwhelming task. 
Did Mom or Dad want a full burial or cremation? Was clergy to be present and what about scripture or the final resting place? A funeral service is actually for the living. It is the first step in grief healing and should leave behind memories and a bonding of family and friends. I think it is imperative for each of us as we age to begin preparing loved ones for our demise. Discussion with a family member or clergy helps to prepare some of the order of your burial service. My uncle had always talked about being buried under an old pine tree as he didn't care where he went to rest. Guess what? Somewhere in the Cariboo an old cowboy rests in a grave under a pine tree. A pine tree may not be what you had in mind, so it helps to give your loved ones some ideas of what you may desire. Senior, adult children are a bit frightened about funeral services for parents for it sends a signal that they too must think of the final days of their lives. Once everyone settles into the discussion it becomes easy and even rather enjoyable. Now you can relax knowing that maybe your favorite hymn or music will be shared at your funeral service and a true celebration of your life will leave good memories behind. 
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