Funeral Traditions

There are many different methods of disposing of the remains of a person, whether you are considering it for yourself at some future point or are in the unfortunate position of making arrangements for a loved one. However you choose to deal with the mortal remains of a departed person, it is a difficult job and not too pleasant to think about, but it must be done.

At many times throughout history different methods of disposing of lost loved ones remains have been prevalent, from the flaming boats of a Viking funeral to the tall platforms erected by some tribes of native peoples. The Egyptians mummified and preserved bodies along with other tribes and cultures in other parts of the world, and other people used funeral pyres to consume the departed in flames of purification.

For a long time, however, the traditional method of accomplishing this necessary task is the traditional casket burial in a cemetery. For many people this is just an honored tradition, but many people now are making plans that include cremation memorials, and becoming very creative with the way they depart this world. A cremation memorial can be a creative and loving way to celebrate the life of a departed friend or loved one, and there are as many options involved as you can create in your imagination.

You may choose to have your remains encased in a hand made cremation urn, or perhaps divided into several funeral urns or art urns and given to multiple family members. Perhaps a portion of remains can be kept in a one of a kind urn while the rest is allowed to be distributed freely from your favorite scenic overlook or be spread in your favorite part of the local wilderness. Perhaps there is a field you spent time meditating in, or patch of favorite hiking trail that you became attached to. These are all great choices for letting go of a portion of yours or a loved ones remains.

Cremation urns can be custom made, and can be made from many materials such as metal cremation urns, wood funeral urns, ceramic urns, glass cremation urns and many others as well as pet urns, dog urns and cat urns. Bits of the cremated remains can be swirled into the custom made glass cremation urns, preserving a bit of a loved one into the artwork for all time. This would be a truly lovely way to remember an important person.

Many, many options are open for the erection of a shrine or altar dedicated to a passed friend or beloved family member. The hand made funeral urn can be the centerpiece of this display with family photos, memorial jewelry, memorial textile art and other keepsakes around the custom made urn, and it can be as big or small as you want it to be. It can even be erected outside, if the proper materials and precautions are taken to preserve the objects displayed in the shrine.

Choosing a cremation memorial is a creative and beautiful way to face a difficult subject. With a growing population it is also perhaps a more environmentally friendly way to go as well. Cemeteries take up tremendous amounts of space, and often in crowded areas, although the upside is that they are quiet places of reflection generally filled with trees and wildlife. However, cremation memorials offer the same sanctuary without having to purchase space in a public facility.