Religious Funeral vs. Celebration of Life

You know, I told you that I went to my Dad's funeral recently. Yesterday I went to the funeral of another, a best friend from AA, Jane Cushen. At my Dad's funeral, the Bishop of the Mormon Church conducted the services, it was held in the Mormon church, it had prayer, speakers, and felt like a church service. My dead father was dressed in Mormon Temple clothes. (IF you don't know what those are, don't ask).

At Jane's funeral, she was cremated and it was a "Celebration of Life". Instead of big flower funeral sprays, there were balloon bouquets at a picnic area at a City Park. Instead of being run by a certain religious denomination, the service consisted of volunteers from AA or the deceased's family who wanted to say a few words. Instead of a banquet there was a picnic with sandwiches and chips.

What a difference. I now feel that I want a picnic in the park with balloon bouquets. Cremate me and throw me to the wind. Let my loved ones say a couple of words, but have a fun picnic. That's it.