Navigating the world of funeral services can be a bit like entering a mysterious realm, but fear not! We’re about to sprinkle a little fun on the etiquette of paying your respects and remembering those who’ve left this world.
To Attend or Not to Attend, That Is the Question!
The big question that pops up like a tricky riddle: Should you attend the funeral? Well, unless it’s a super-secret, invite-only shindig, you can usually bet your lucky socks that the public is welcome, and you should go. It’s like a community gathering where everyone’s invited – except you don’t need a special code to get in.
But here’s the kicker: when you’ve never walked in the shoes of loss yourself, you might not get just how much it means to the grieving family to see a venue bursting with folks who care. Remember, they know that funerals can be as inconvenient as trying to unfold a map on a windy day. (That is of course you are old enough to know what a paper map is.) That’s why they’ll remember that you showed up and cared.
The Great Funeral Spectrum
Funerals today come in all shapes and sizes, from the strictly traditional to the wild and wacky. But don’t let the fear of unfamiliar rituals deter you. Even if it’s a celebration of life for someone from a completely different galaxy of beliefs, your presence is like a warm hug to the bereaved.
If you’re unsure what to do, don’t panic! Just ask the funeral director or the resident clergy or Civil Celebrant for guidance. They’re like the friendly GPS of the funeral world, pointing you in the right direction. And if all else fails, simply sit tight, stay quiet, and keep your phone on silent.
Early Bird Gets the Comfort
Here’s a golden nugget of wisdom: arrive early. There’s nothing worse than those who waltz in fashionably late and end up parking on Mars and trying to squeeze into a crowded chapel.
And speaking of gold, if there’s a memorial book, make sure you sign it as soon as you get there. Don’t procrastinate until the funeral director has to personally track you down like a detective hot on the trail of a clueless attendee.
Don’t play detective yourself and try to track down the grieving family before the service begins. If they’re busy greeting folks, keep it short and sweet. The seating arrangement is like a matchmaking game; family upfront, close friends in the second row, and acquaintances chilling in the back.
Funeral Service, Don’t Be a Nuisance
Once you’re in, it’s time to put on your “I’m respectful and know the drill” hat. Avoid chatting with your neighbour, and for the love of all things solemn, don’t start munching on snacks or sipping your latte.
Switch your phone to silent mode. Trust us, the world will survive without your Instagram updates for a few minutes. Unless the apocalypse is nigh, stick around for the whole service.
Kids in tow? If they start a circus act, promptly escort them outside. Tears are okay, but if you turn into a waterfall of emotion, it’s best to take a breather outside.
And remember, if you get a chance to share memories on an open mic, don’t hog the spotlight with your Oscar-worthy monologue. Keep it short and sweet, and please, make it about the dearly departed, not your latest skydiving adventure.
At a religious service, roll with the rituals even if they’re as foreign as a menu in a foreign language. It’s a sign of respect, like not talking during a movie.
If there’s an open coffin/casket involved, you might get the chance to walk past it. If you’d rather not, sit quietly. No one’s going to judge you for that.
So, there you have it, the art of attending a funeral service with a sprinkle of flair. Remember, it’s all about showing you care and honouring those who’ve left us.
This blog has been written or reproduced to assist those people who hold Funerals in Brisbane, as well as the Gold and Sunshine Coasts.
Ashley Bergh Copyright 2023
*Image via Chatgpt
