Living Funeral

I was watching The Weather Man a few days ago.

The 2005 film stars Nicolas Cage as the main character. The film, if you haven't seen it, takes a snapshot of Cage's life, his family and his career.

It is what I would describe as an off-beat film. Some dark themes are expressed, alongside some genuinely comic and touching moments.

Cage's father is played by Michael Caine. He is a highly regarded writer, who now has been told he has a terminal illness.

Which brings me to the point of this post.

It is decided that they will have a living funeral. I have heard of this before. It isn't a new concept. But I did think The Weather Man's portrayal of this practice was lovely.

If you haven't been introduced to the idea of a living funeral, it is simply a funeral while the person is still alive. Funerals can be as different and individual as the people they are for, so there is no blanket format for what a living funeral should be. People have the chance to say goodbye to their loved one, face to face. They can sing. They can make speeches and toasts. They can have meals. They can do something theatrical, or something very simple and intimate.

A living funeral can also provide the opportunity for the person who will soon die to also say goodbye, and perhaps explain, in person, their instructions in their will.

Psychologically and emotionally, I can see why a living funeral would be beneficial for all involved. Too often, when someone dies, there are things not said and not done, making grieving all the more horrific.

And, if nothing else, you can use your own living funeral as a chance to just have a party and celebrate life. Your own life, as well as the life your friends, family and colleagues share. Although a sad time, it can also be joyous, making lasting memories for those you leave behind. And it is good practice for the real funeral...

I don't plan to have one anytime soon, but it is something I would definately consider if I were ever to know in advance that my time was coming to an end (but I am still young! - ish).

Would you think about having one yourself? Or perhaps it would be too morbid and uncomfortable for you?