Every Life Tells A Story
Every life tells a story and as an Independent Celebrant it’s my privilege to spend time with families and ensure that their person’s story is told in ways that are authentic, meaningful and heartfelt. As a celebrant I get to spend time with those who have experienced loss or who are anticipating the loss of a special person in their lives and hear their stories. It is wonderful to learn about someone and why that person meant so much to others. How people have been caught in the ripples of another’s life.
I take on board their stories; not just the facts of someone’s life, not even simply their passions, personality and hobbies; but the stories of their connections and the anecdotes that link them forever to the hearts and minds of those left behind after their physical presence has gone. I then write a script, and reflect back what I have heard, demonstrating to you my understanding of their importance in your life, and allowing their life and yours to ripple into mine
Direct Cremations
Direct Cremations may well fulfil the objectives of a funeral and the wishes of the deceased. However, they often leave those grieving with a hole where ritual, community gathering, and an opportunity to celebrate and grieve together are needed to help process their absence.
Life is full of moments that require us to pause and take stock. We are all born, and we all die. It’s part of life. It’s a significant moment to take stock, reflect. A direct funeral does not always provide the community, time, space and spiritual and community support we each may need. Having an opportunity to say goodbye together can help you and others begin to process loss.
A Celebration of Life Service
A Celebration of Life ceremony can be held on the day of the direct funeral or at another time. If the direct funeral has been arranged through a local funeral director, it may even be possible to hold it with the deceased present and then continue to celebrate their life as they are chauffeured to their unattended service at the cemetery or crematorium. This ensuring you are held and supported within your community through a highly emotive moment in time in a space meaningful to you and the person whose life you are remembering.
The benefits of A Celebration of Life
Holding a service to celebrate the life for someone important to you, who you loved and / or who impacted your life can help with coming to terms with your loss. It gives those connected to the deceased the chance to remember all the things that made them the person they were. And it allows you to reflect on who you are, in part, because of them.
As a celebrant, I can write a unique, authentic, respectful, life affirming service. It can include all those special moments, amusing anecdotes, and impactful stories you want to share. It can involve any of you, and include any activities, foods, drinks, actions, music and objects that help express what made your person unique. The celebration can be held in a location that is meaningful to you and your person. And it gifts you time, because, the ceremony can be as long as you want it to be.
I am a member and Vice President of the Association of Independent Celebrants
Hear more by subscribing to my YouTube Podcast, Berni B: Full Life
