Celebration of Life: Changing Trends

I have been called upon to officiate for many beautiful interfaith families, to help navigate Jewish customs and culture, Buddhist, Christian, agnostic and atheist services. Important characteristics of my work include compassion, focused listening, excellent communication, writing, storytelling, professional speaking, decades of experience and reliable resources. I discover what bereaved families and friends envision, what resonates for them, how they want to participate and how I can best help them. I integrate prayers, poems and transitions. I am the Master of Celebration, introducing those who have been invited to share their memorial tributes and remembrances. Funeral Celebrant is not just what I do; it is who I am.

Death of a Celebrity

Why are people so affected by the loss of someone famous, someone they did not know personally? Well, loss is loss. The media and social media have brought these people into our lives in a more intimate way. Bonds are formed, even if they are virtual bonds. And any loss can trigger emotions. We don't need to judge it, but can try to understand it by open communication. There may be some aspect of how the celebrity was appreciated for their talents, their gifts, their lifestyle, their contributions or their entertainment value. There may be some connection to how the person died or the age of the person. There may be a raised consciousness of the reality of death, regardless of how much money, acclaim or accomplishment someone has achieved. External circumstances or things to which we become attached on our earthly journey cannot protect us from the reality of death and the pain of grief. Let us be mindful of the celebrities in our lives, not just those profiled in the media, but of the seemingly ordinary people doing extraordinary things, of the people we love, as well as those who love us.