Rich in history, funeral services have existed for centuries to enable people to lay their loved ones to rest. The ceremony has been viewed as a crucial part of the grieving process – designed to bring family and friends to lend support to one another and commemorate the deceased.
The loss of a loved one is never easy. The grieving family is left to navigate their way through their emotions and thoughts. On top of that, they would have to focus on making funeral arrangements, selecting casket services and other logistics. It is easy to feel that everything is chaotic and overwhelming. But this process has always been important – they are instrumental in helping people to grieve in a productive and meaningful manner.
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Acknowledge their loss
The trauma of losing a loved one can bring an instinctive denial. It can be hard to accept their death. But when you conduct a funeral for them, it makes the loss more real and apparent, which helps you to acknowledge the reality of things and guides you in moving forward from the initial grief you are experiencing. During the casket viewing, friends and family members can have a quiet moment of reflection and say their final goodbye to achieve a partial sense of mental closure.
Celebrate the life lived
Every human life has value and funerals are held as a way to celebrate and remember the life lived. Family members come together to recognise the deceased’s influence and impact on their lives. During the service, they share a few words and give testimony to the life of the deceased, allowing everyone in attendance to remember and honour their importance.
Comfort of performing rituals
In times of chaos and uncertainty, completing rituals provide stability and comfort. They require focus and are meaningful to carry out – there is a certain amount of predictability in the process. It allows people to move past their initial shock and take a step forward in a better way. For example, in a Buddhist funeral, following the priest chanting and prayers can play a part in commemorating and honouring a loved one.
Support from loved ones
The funeral service creates a supportive environment full of respect, love and warmth, which builds a strong bond amongst people who care about each other. They also gather together to share stories, cry, offer support and comfort each other. Many might be feeling the same loss; thus, shared grief can be easier to bear so individuals won’t feel alone in their pain. This community grieving process plays an important role in the healing process.
