By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jason_Stieler]Jason Stieler
Discussing death definitely is a touchy subject. Why? I'm convinced that it is due to the uncertainty that is incorporated with it. I will say this though, it doesn't have to be, nor should it be, something to be afraid of.
What happens when we die?
Wow! These days this has become quite the controversial subject, but you know what? It shouldn't be! Regardless of what anybody may think, there is One Truth out there, and just because we aren't aware of it, doesn't mean it isn't true! There was once a time, where the world was thought of as flat, but the Truth of the matter was that it was round. Just because the Truth was unknown, didn't make it any less True! That's the kind of Truth I'm referring to, and that's the kind of Truth I encourage you to be seeking after! The Absolute Truth!
Seek and you shall find!
If your goal is to seek out what is wrong with something, that is exactly what you'll find! If your goal is to seek out why something isn't true, you'll find your reasons!
However, no matter what any of us seek out, there is still One Truth behind everything, despite how ignorant we may, or may not be!
What does this mean?
Well, my suggestion to you, is to start actively seeking The Truth out! The Truth behind everything!
To hopefully be encouraging, let me use myself as an example;
My entire life I've viewed my life as how I view business, and how I view business is simple. I view business as nothing more than problems and solutions, over, and over, and over. Since I view my own life this way, I starting attacking all of the problems in my life, one at a time, until I found solutions to them! Bottom line here is, I eventually came to the realization that the one problem I was going to face in my life, no matter what I did, was the inevitable problem of death. Something we all must deal with eventually, which is why it has become the one problem I've spent my entire life searching out a solution for. This has caused me to start seeking out The Truth behind everything!
Without going into great details about what I've found and learned, (those are for another article,) I can now say, that I know, without a shadow of a doubt, what will be happening to me when it is my time to die, and I no longer live in fear of it, nor do I feel sad about it, nor am I encouraging it to happen anytime soon. I'm unexpectedly encouraged and excited by what I've learned!
All of that being said, I am writing this to simply encourage you to actively seek out The Absolute Truth, behind everything in life. It does exist, and I know you'll find your answers eventually! When you do, you'll be able to live with a greater understanding of your purpose, and no longer live with the fear and uncertainty of dying.
Here are some tips to help you in your pursuit of finding The Absolute Truth;
1) Be honest with yourself even though The Truth may hurt!
2) The Truth means responsibility!
3) Possess the ability to admit when you're wrong!
4) While searching for answers, do so with every ounce of your Mind, Body, Soul, and Heart!
To receive Free, Private, [http://www.suggestionsforlife.com/Suggestions_For_Life.html]Suggestions For Life from a Life Coach click; [http://www.suggestionsforlife.com/Advice_On_Life.html]Suggestions For Life
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Suggestions-For-Life---Death-And-Dying&id=6655589] Suggestions For Life - Death And Dying
Friday, December 30, 2011
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Steve Jobs, Why Must You Die So Young?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Napoleon_Lopez]Napoleon Lopez
On October 5, 2011, the Family of Steve Jobs, the legendary founder of Apple Corporation, announced his peaceful death, "surrounded by family". And those he, through his wife Laureen, chose to be close to him. He was 56.
The world mourned. One headline described it in one word: "iSad".
My first reaction, as an Apple fan was -- Steve, why must you die so young?
Thoughts about this permeated my mind even while I'm sleeping.
Lately, the question evolved to "Steve, why must you LIVE so short?".
To solve this restlessness, I decided to write my thoughts about this. and meditate on the reasons why.
Why must an extra-ordinary guy who is blessing millions of people with his products and innovations, and the jobs they generate, be taken away so young at the cusp of his life?
He is an inspiration to those who are poor who know that he came from working-class parents, who were not even his biological parents.
He is a model of true education to students who know who that he dropped out of college after six months, yet dropped-in on subjects that interested him for another 18 months.
He is a teacher to us of humility, to know that once he picked up Coke bottles for their 5-cent deposits, to buy food.
So, why must he die young?
After struggling with my thoughts, I came up with seven feeble attempts at explaining the unexplainable.
I must emphasize that these are my personal views. And I make no attempt to appear as a philosopher, nor a deep thinker.
I just wanted to rest my mind.
Dying Young, Seven Feeble Attempts To Answer Why
1. Billions of money, can be no match for death, especially, when death's time has come. But... billions of money can do a lot good things, before death's time, comes.
2. If you live and do the things you love, money,or wealth, will be its natural consequence.
Steve found what he loved to do at age 21. He worked hard at it. He was able to gather like-minded people due to his vision, charisma, and leadership.
Doing what he loved to do, he became a multi-millionaire at age 25
3. Health is wealth. How can you enjoy your wealth, when you are in a hospital bed?
4. Living is not all about the money. At death's final moments, you don't seek your money, you seek for your Family. His family's carefully-worded statement says it all.
Steve died "peacefully, surrounded by family".
5. Even when healthy, living long is not a guarantee. A life-ending accident can be just an "eye-blink" away.
Steve was well-known to care for his health. He mostly ate fish, fruits and vegetables. He is known to practice "eastern" philosophy, and he meditates a lot. He believes in "natural cures" and "alternative" medicine.
Yet, he got cancer.
6. There is a Supernatural Being who stands above us all. At the risk of sounding controversial, He controls our destinies... given the inputs, that we give, if I may add.
And death, is a strong reminder.
7. Thinking about death can be a very powerful motivator.
Apple's greatest products came after Steve Jobs was diagnosed to be dying with cancer. His doctor gave him 3 to 6 months to live. He lived for another 7 years.
With Steve Jobs spearheading product design and development, Apple came up with products that would catapult Apple to become the number one most valuable company in the world in terms of shareholder value.
At the end of "intra-day trading" on August 9, 2011... Apple was valued at $337.2 billion (Bloomberg, August 10, 2011), They eclipsing oil company Exxon in the process, and left to dust Microsoft and IBM who drove them to near extinction before Jobs rescued Apple in 1996.
In January 2007, Steve announced to the world, the iPhone.
In January 2010, the iPad.
At the end of the fiscal year 2010, Apple reported that it sold worldwide, a total of about 73.734 million iPhones!
For the iPad, Apple reported on June 21, 2010 that it in 80 days, 3 million iPads in 80 days!
... So, why must Steve Jobs had to die so young?
He died to emphasize the following values which we may have forgotten in our day-to-day business of living.
Money alone can't buy you life.... Live, to love.... Good health is ultimate wealth.... At life's end, what matters most is Family, not money.... Good health is not enough to prevent death.... "Be at peace with God whatever you conceive Him to be".
And finally, Death is... life.
Incidentally, just a week before Steve Jobs died, I wrote for client a piece about an [http://www.squidoo.com/amazonkindlefire-review]iPad killer. Of course it's not an apple. It's an orange. Interested? Take a look. It's at least cheaper by $300. . Click Here... [http://www.squidoo.com/amazonkindlefire-review]http://www.squidoo.com/amazonkindlefire-review.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Steve-Jobs,-Why-Must-You-Die-So-Young?&id=6643360] Steve Jobs, Why Must You Die So Young?
On October 5, 2011, the Family of Steve Jobs, the legendary founder of Apple Corporation, announced his peaceful death, "surrounded by family". And those he, through his wife Laureen, chose to be close to him. He was 56.
The world mourned. One headline described it in one word: "iSad".
My first reaction, as an Apple fan was -- Steve, why must you die so young?
Thoughts about this permeated my mind even while I'm sleeping.
Lately, the question evolved to "Steve, why must you LIVE so short?".
To solve this restlessness, I decided to write my thoughts about this. and meditate on the reasons why.
Why must an extra-ordinary guy who is blessing millions of people with his products and innovations, and the jobs they generate, be taken away so young at the cusp of his life?
He is an inspiration to those who are poor who know that he came from working-class parents, who were not even his biological parents.
He is a model of true education to students who know who that he dropped out of college after six months, yet dropped-in on subjects that interested him for another 18 months.
He is a teacher to us of humility, to know that once he picked up Coke bottles for their 5-cent deposits, to buy food.
So, why must he die young?
After struggling with my thoughts, I came up with seven feeble attempts at explaining the unexplainable.
I must emphasize that these are my personal views. And I make no attempt to appear as a philosopher, nor a deep thinker.
I just wanted to rest my mind.
Dying Young, Seven Feeble Attempts To Answer Why
1. Billions of money, can be no match for death, especially, when death's time has come. But... billions of money can do a lot good things, before death's time, comes.
2. If you live and do the things you love, money,or wealth, will be its natural consequence.
Steve found what he loved to do at age 21. He worked hard at it. He was able to gather like-minded people due to his vision, charisma, and leadership.
Doing what he loved to do, he became a multi-millionaire at age 25
3. Health is wealth. How can you enjoy your wealth, when you are in a hospital bed?
4. Living is not all about the money. At death's final moments, you don't seek your money, you seek for your Family. His family's carefully-worded statement says it all.
Steve died "peacefully, surrounded by family".
5. Even when healthy, living long is not a guarantee. A life-ending accident can be just an "eye-blink" away.
Steve was well-known to care for his health. He mostly ate fish, fruits and vegetables. He is known to practice "eastern" philosophy, and he meditates a lot. He believes in "natural cures" and "alternative" medicine.
Yet, he got cancer.
6. There is a Supernatural Being who stands above us all. At the risk of sounding controversial, He controls our destinies... given the inputs, that we give, if I may add.
And death, is a strong reminder.
7. Thinking about death can be a very powerful motivator.
Apple's greatest products came after Steve Jobs was diagnosed to be dying with cancer. His doctor gave him 3 to 6 months to live. He lived for another 7 years.
With Steve Jobs spearheading product design and development, Apple came up with products that would catapult Apple to become the number one most valuable company in the world in terms of shareholder value.
At the end of "intra-day trading" on August 9, 2011... Apple was valued at $337.2 billion (Bloomberg, August 10, 2011), They eclipsing oil company Exxon in the process, and left to dust Microsoft and IBM who drove them to near extinction before Jobs rescued Apple in 1996.
In January 2007, Steve announced to the world, the iPhone.
In January 2010, the iPad.
At the end of the fiscal year 2010, Apple reported that it sold worldwide, a total of about 73.734 million iPhones!
For the iPad, Apple reported on June 21, 2010 that it in 80 days, 3 million iPads in 80 days!
... So, why must Steve Jobs had to die so young?
He died to emphasize the following values which we may have forgotten in our day-to-day business of living.
Money alone can't buy you life.... Live, to love.... Good health is ultimate wealth.... At life's end, what matters most is Family, not money.... Good health is not enough to prevent death.... "Be at peace with God whatever you conceive Him to be".
And finally, Death is... life.
Incidentally, just a week before Steve Jobs died, I wrote for client a piece about an [http://www.squidoo.com/amazonkindlefire-review]iPad killer. Of course it's not an apple. It's an orange. Interested? Take a look. It's at least cheaper by $300. . Click Here... [http://www.squidoo.com/amazonkindlefire-review]http://www.squidoo.com/amazonkindlefire-review.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Steve-Jobs,-Why-Must-You-Die-So-Young?&id=6643360] Steve Jobs, Why Must You Die So Young?
Monday, December 26, 2011
The Necessity For Funeral Planning
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Adrianna_Noton]Adrianna Noton
No one wants to think about what will happen when they die or how to plan for that event. It seems that in this day and age of soaring costs in most service related industries, it would be prudent for some sort of funeral planning to be done. Reasons can range from financial responsibility to sparing family members and friends the pressure of facing time related decisions that may be made in haste.
The financial aspect of planning your final affairs is at the forefront of easing the transition from life to eternal rest. Visiting the home of choice in advance will certainly yield helpful solutions from a knowledgeable staff. The viewing hours can be set to what the predeceased feels would be appropriate. Additionally, extra services can be negotiated such as floral arrangement, donations in lieu of flowers, and casket choice.
An amount can be agreed upon and placed into a financial vehicle that will take price increases into account over a period of time. An example would be that if a person purchased services but was fairly young and healthy and did not expect to die for another twenty years. The funds could be managed by the funeral home so as to gain a certain rate of return that would cover the cost of price increases in materials and services.
The buyer could also negotiate a flat fee for services that is a certain percentage above the current rates. If there were a balance due it could be paid at the time of the funeral by an appointed representative of the deceased. The same would be paid to that representative should there be a refund due.
The type of service should also be decided when planning. There are many different types of funerals that are held every day. If the buyer desires military services, the funeral director will be able to contact the appropriate organization for the choices made. If there is a viewing prior to a cremation, that could all be organized and planned for the times and places these events happen.
The survivors of the decedent will be overwhelmed with duties to attend. There is notification of friends and family that must take place. There will be transportation decisions to be made between all attending the funeral. Clothing and suits must be bought, dry cleaned, or altered for fit. Then the customary get together that follows a lot of these family happenings must be planned.
The fact that the hardest part of the final wishes has been taken care of makes all the other planning much easier and less of a detractor from the main point of focus. The family will still be grief stricken and despondent but knowing that the financial aspect and logistical points were covered in advance are certainly welcome.
Funeral planning is not the most welcome thought. There are good reasons for dealing with it before it is needed. With death being a certainty, planning your own departure from your family and friends can be an act of final control. It is also an immense act of assistance to people who are dealing with the loss we ultimately face in all our lives.
As a provider of [http://www.funeralservices.net/]Toronto funeral homes and [http://www.funeralservices.net/]funeral planning, we help families and friends honour their loved ones by providing all the necessary funeral services they desire.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Necessity-For-Funeral-Planning&id=6673441] The Necessity For Funeral Planning
No one wants to think about what will happen when they die or how to plan for that event. It seems that in this day and age of soaring costs in most service related industries, it would be prudent for some sort of funeral planning to be done. Reasons can range from financial responsibility to sparing family members and friends the pressure of facing time related decisions that may be made in haste.
The financial aspect of planning your final affairs is at the forefront of easing the transition from life to eternal rest. Visiting the home of choice in advance will certainly yield helpful solutions from a knowledgeable staff. The viewing hours can be set to what the predeceased feels would be appropriate. Additionally, extra services can be negotiated such as floral arrangement, donations in lieu of flowers, and casket choice.
An amount can be agreed upon and placed into a financial vehicle that will take price increases into account over a period of time. An example would be that if a person purchased services but was fairly young and healthy and did not expect to die for another twenty years. The funds could be managed by the funeral home so as to gain a certain rate of return that would cover the cost of price increases in materials and services.
The buyer could also negotiate a flat fee for services that is a certain percentage above the current rates. If there were a balance due it could be paid at the time of the funeral by an appointed representative of the deceased. The same would be paid to that representative should there be a refund due.
The type of service should also be decided when planning. There are many different types of funerals that are held every day. If the buyer desires military services, the funeral director will be able to contact the appropriate organization for the choices made. If there is a viewing prior to a cremation, that could all be organized and planned for the times and places these events happen.
The survivors of the decedent will be overwhelmed with duties to attend. There is notification of friends and family that must take place. There will be transportation decisions to be made between all attending the funeral. Clothing and suits must be bought, dry cleaned, or altered for fit. Then the customary get together that follows a lot of these family happenings must be planned.
The fact that the hardest part of the final wishes has been taken care of makes all the other planning much easier and less of a detractor from the main point of focus. The family will still be grief stricken and despondent but knowing that the financial aspect and logistical points were covered in advance are certainly welcome.
Funeral planning is not the most welcome thought. There are good reasons for dealing with it before it is needed. With death being a certainty, planning your own departure from your family and friends can be an act of final control. It is also an immense act of assistance to people who are dealing with the loss we ultimately face in all our lives.
As a provider of [http://www.funeralservices.net/]Toronto funeral homes and [http://www.funeralservices.net/]funeral planning, we help families and friends honour their loved ones by providing all the necessary funeral services they desire.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Necessity-For-Funeral-Planning&id=6673441] The Necessity For Funeral Planning
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Gone, But Not Forgotten - Physical Keepsakes Of The Deceased
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Monica_Phillips]Monica Phillips
When someone who was loved passes away, there is a natural desire to somehow hold onto their presence by possessing something of a physical nature of the deceased. Although there are simple ways to accomplish this, history provides us with many examples of people going to extremes to obtain physical keepsakes of infamous people.
Perhaps more than any other religion, the Roman Catholic Church bestows special honors and veneration upon body parts of saints and martyrs. St. Jerome (ca. A.D. 340-420) declared that it was proper to venerate the relics of the martyrs "in order the better to adore him whose martyrs they are." To this end, the Catholic Church has decreed that the whole or any part of the body of a saint/martyr is to be classified as a "First-Class" relic. In many locations throughout the world, the ultimate "First Class" relic displayed in a Church would be the whole "incorruptible" (barely decomposed) body of a saint.
Some of the physical keepsakes that have been obtained from deceased public figures range from the fairly tame to the truly bizarre. The Maine Historical Society has a locket of George Washington's hair on public display. Famous Italian astronomer and visionary Galileo has his finger on exhibit in a Museum in Florence, Italy. At the Henry Ford Museum a test tube that allegedly contains the last breath of Thomas Edison can be viewed. In a more recent example of macabre keepsakes, it has been learned that back in the sixties singer/songwriter John Lennon had given a tooth to his housekeeper. It has now been put up for auction and is expected to fetch the sum of at least $16,000.00!
Fortunately, most people today opt for a more subtle keepsake option in the form of memorial cremation jewelry. Because of the growing acceptance of cremation as an alternative to burial, the demand for this specialized jewelry has blossomed into a multi-million dollar industry. Available in many different styles, cremation jewelry differs from other jewelry in that it has a small hollow center in which a tiny portion of the deceased's ashes are placed. Even if a traditional burial is performed, some creative people still make use of cremation jewelry by using a bit of the deceased's hair in place of ashes.
For many people, there is a strong desire to have a physical keepsake of a loved one. It may assist in keeping memories alive or be a source of comfort to have the cremated remains of a loved one close to their heart. Although most cremation jewelry will never be displayed at a museum or sold at an auction for thousands of dollars, the comfort that it can bring to the bereaved is truly priceless.
For additional information regarding [http://www.hearttoheartsympathygifts.com/memorial-jewelry.html]cremation jewelry, contact [http://www.hearttoheartsympathygifts.com]Heart to Heart Sympathy Gifts, an online source for gifts of comfort and remembrance.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Gone,-But-Not-Forgotten---Physical-Keepsakes-Of-The-Deceased&id=6679192] Gone, But Not Forgotten - Physical Keepsakes Of The Deceased
When someone who was loved passes away, there is a natural desire to somehow hold onto their presence by possessing something of a physical nature of the deceased. Although there are simple ways to accomplish this, history provides us with many examples of people going to extremes to obtain physical keepsakes of infamous people.
Perhaps more than any other religion, the Roman Catholic Church bestows special honors and veneration upon body parts of saints and martyrs. St. Jerome (ca. A.D. 340-420) declared that it was proper to venerate the relics of the martyrs "in order the better to adore him whose martyrs they are." To this end, the Catholic Church has decreed that the whole or any part of the body of a saint/martyr is to be classified as a "First-Class" relic. In many locations throughout the world, the ultimate "First Class" relic displayed in a Church would be the whole "incorruptible" (barely decomposed) body of a saint.
Some of the physical keepsakes that have been obtained from deceased public figures range from the fairly tame to the truly bizarre. The Maine Historical Society has a locket of George Washington's hair on public display. Famous Italian astronomer and visionary Galileo has his finger on exhibit in a Museum in Florence, Italy. At the Henry Ford Museum a test tube that allegedly contains the last breath of Thomas Edison can be viewed. In a more recent example of macabre keepsakes, it has been learned that back in the sixties singer/songwriter John Lennon had given a tooth to his housekeeper. It has now been put up for auction and is expected to fetch the sum of at least $16,000.00!
Fortunately, most people today opt for a more subtle keepsake option in the form of memorial cremation jewelry. Because of the growing acceptance of cremation as an alternative to burial, the demand for this specialized jewelry has blossomed into a multi-million dollar industry. Available in many different styles, cremation jewelry differs from other jewelry in that it has a small hollow center in which a tiny portion of the deceased's ashes are placed. Even if a traditional burial is performed, some creative people still make use of cremation jewelry by using a bit of the deceased's hair in place of ashes.
For many people, there is a strong desire to have a physical keepsake of a loved one. It may assist in keeping memories alive or be a source of comfort to have the cremated remains of a loved one close to their heart. Although most cremation jewelry will never be displayed at a museum or sold at an auction for thousands of dollars, the comfort that it can bring to the bereaved is truly priceless.
For additional information regarding [http://www.hearttoheartsympathygifts.com/memorial-jewelry.html]cremation jewelry, contact [http://www.hearttoheartsympathygifts.com]Heart to Heart Sympathy Gifts, an online source for gifts of comfort and remembrance.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Gone,-But-Not-Forgotten---Physical-Keepsakes-Of-The-Deceased&id=6679192] Gone, But Not Forgotten - Physical Keepsakes Of The Deceased
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Do We Ever Overcome The Loss Of Our Mother?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Christine_Queiroli]Christine Queiroli Are you fortunate to have your mother still in your life? Do you ever wonder what your life will be like without her in it? Everyone has different feelings on this but I believe we all can relate in one way or another.
Being one who has lost both parents, I would like to share some feelings and thoughts of what comes later. I was 32yrs. old when my mother was diagnosed with colon and liver cancer in January of 1988. The doctors told us she had around 3 months left. Back then it was something that I never wanted to think about. As I was growing up I can remember getting physically sick at the thought of losing my mother someday. When it entered my mind I would do anything possible to get that thought out of my head. I can't speak for other nationalities but for most Italians our mothers are the most important person in our lives whether we admit it or not! So, I wanted to be there and take care of her as much as possible. I remember working 12-14 hrs a day, 6 days a week at my job, then leaving work at night, going straight to the hospital and sleeping on the chair all night until the next morning. I'd leave the hospital, go home to get ready for work again. It was like that every time she was in the hospital. When she was home she slept on the couch because it was more comfortable for her. I slept on the floor next to the couch just in case she woke up and needed me. I would bathe her, give her shots for the pain, change her colostomy bag and anything else that she needed me to do. Even though I wasn't the best daughter growing up, I can say from my heart that I was there for my mother when it was most important and I told her everyday how much I loved her. After a 24 month difficult battle, my mother passed away at home, on the couch, in my arms. I will never forget that night or the look on her face the second before she passed. She was the most beautiful, loving, giving person in the world to me and our family.
After my mother's passing my father was so lost. They had been married just over 40 years and were never apart. I had to make a decision at that time to stay with my father or leave and begin the next phase of my life. Thinking hard about it I decided to stay with my father to help him adjust to the loss of my mother, his wife.
For the first few weeks we were both sort of numb. I didn't go to work, stayed in my room day and night only talking to my best friend and a couple family members. It had seemed like her death hit them almost as hard.
That was 23 yrs. ago and I still think of all of her support, courage, strength and friendship, but most of all, I can still feel the warmth, the softness, and the love in her hugs as if she were here with her arms around me.
Do we ever overcome the loss of a mother? I never have, I just have learned how to keep her close in my heart so she is with me every minute of every day!
So, to all of the daughters and sons who still have their mother in their lives, remember to forgive her when she makes you mad, to be there for her when she needs you, to comfort her when she is sad, to show her how proud you are that she is your mother, and when the first time comes to leave your home, don't forget to keep doing all of these things, and most of all remember to always tell her how much you love her because that's exactly what's she done for you your whole life.
And, if you're too busy or you just put it off, remember someday it might be too late!!
Love to all who have lost their mother.
If you have a story, or you would like to share something about your mother, or give some advice to a son or daughter, please do so.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Do-We-Ever-Overcome-The-Loss-Of-Our-Mother?&id=6679921] Do We Ever Overcome The Loss Of Our Mother?
Being one who has lost both parents, I would like to share some feelings and thoughts of what comes later. I was 32yrs. old when my mother was diagnosed with colon and liver cancer in January of 1988. The doctors told us she had around 3 months left. Back then it was something that I never wanted to think about. As I was growing up I can remember getting physically sick at the thought of losing my mother someday. When it entered my mind I would do anything possible to get that thought out of my head. I can't speak for other nationalities but for most Italians our mothers are the most important person in our lives whether we admit it or not! So, I wanted to be there and take care of her as much as possible. I remember working 12-14 hrs a day, 6 days a week at my job, then leaving work at night, going straight to the hospital and sleeping on the chair all night until the next morning. I'd leave the hospital, go home to get ready for work again. It was like that every time she was in the hospital. When she was home she slept on the couch because it was more comfortable for her. I slept on the floor next to the couch just in case she woke up and needed me. I would bathe her, give her shots for the pain, change her colostomy bag and anything else that she needed me to do. Even though I wasn't the best daughter growing up, I can say from my heart that I was there for my mother when it was most important and I told her everyday how much I loved her. After a 24 month difficult battle, my mother passed away at home, on the couch, in my arms. I will never forget that night or the look on her face the second before she passed. She was the most beautiful, loving, giving person in the world to me and our family.
After my mother's passing my father was so lost. They had been married just over 40 years and were never apart. I had to make a decision at that time to stay with my father or leave and begin the next phase of my life. Thinking hard about it I decided to stay with my father to help him adjust to the loss of my mother, his wife.
For the first few weeks we were both sort of numb. I didn't go to work, stayed in my room day and night only talking to my best friend and a couple family members. It had seemed like her death hit them almost as hard.
That was 23 yrs. ago and I still think of all of her support, courage, strength and friendship, but most of all, I can still feel the warmth, the softness, and the love in her hugs as if she were here with her arms around me.
Do we ever overcome the loss of a mother? I never have, I just have learned how to keep her close in my heart so she is with me every minute of every day!
So, to all of the daughters and sons who still have their mother in their lives, remember to forgive her when she makes you mad, to be there for her when she needs you, to comfort her when she is sad, to show her how proud you are that she is your mother, and when the first time comes to leave your home, don't forget to keep doing all of these things, and most of all remember to always tell her how much you love her because that's exactly what's she done for you your whole life.
And, if you're too busy or you just put it off, remember someday it might be too late!!
Love to all who have lost their mother.
If you have a story, or you would like to share something about your mother, or give some advice to a son or daughter, please do so.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Do-We-Ever-Overcome-The-Loss-Of-Our-Mother?&id=6679921] Do We Ever Overcome The Loss Of Our Mother?
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Real Psychic Mediums
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Saxon]Sarah Saxon
Psychic abilities are latent in everyone but only a few explore their abilities and use them to help unravel the mystery that life is. Being able to see the future, communicate with spirits, glean information by touching things - all these are abilities that psychics have and non psychics do not. Those people who can communicate with spirits of dead people and relay information that is got from them are called mediums and people who respond to some form of psychic energies are known as psychics. Psychic mediums then are people who are endowed with extra sensory perception that allows them to communicate with spirits that exist on a plane that is not physical and transfer information gathered from that dimension to the present.
There are many people who claim to have psychic abilities and an equal number who promise that they can connect with spirits of loved ones and convey or get information. However it is a fact that not all claims are true and most of these people are scammers, just using the insecurities and fears of people to make some fast money. Real psychic mediums are those who use their exceptional sensory powers and the ability to communicate with beings on different planes of existence to share what they have learned, telepathically, with the rest of the world. They are able to be the bridges between the two dimensions of existence without allowing either to affect them but still providing a channel of communication.
Real psychic mediums know that the spirits that they communicate with are not all the same and that it is possible that they do not have the information that people seek. They might connect with the spirit but they are always aware of the fact that they might not be able to get information from it. The real psychic medium will tell the seeker what really transpired without any fudging of edges because he or she is in a state of trance which does not allow for any duplicity. There has been quantified evidence that it is possible to communicate with spirits from the world beyond and their presence has been recorded as ectoplasm leaching out of the medium that has connected with the spirit. Real psychic mediums use their connections with the spirit world to ensure living beings that the recently deceased person has resolved his/her present status or tries to get information that will help resolve issues that those left behind in this world have to face. Mediums have been able to help in solving crimes, finding missing things or people and helping people to move on in their life after the loss of a loved one.
Sarah Saxon works for the psychic & metaphysical arena and is a reiki master. [http://www.psychicsrealm.co.uk/]online psychics [http://www.psychicsight.co.uk/]psychics
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Real-Psychic-Mediums&id=6688297] Real Psychic Mediums
Psychic abilities are latent in everyone but only a few explore their abilities and use them to help unravel the mystery that life is. Being able to see the future, communicate with spirits, glean information by touching things - all these are abilities that psychics have and non psychics do not. Those people who can communicate with spirits of dead people and relay information that is got from them are called mediums and people who respond to some form of psychic energies are known as psychics. Psychic mediums then are people who are endowed with extra sensory perception that allows them to communicate with spirits that exist on a plane that is not physical and transfer information gathered from that dimension to the present.
There are many people who claim to have psychic abilities and an equal number who promise that they can connect with spirits of loved ones and convey or get information. However it is a fact that not all claims are true and most of these people are scammers, just using the insecurities and fears of people to make some fast money. Real psychic mediums are those who use their exceptional sensory powers and the ability to communicate with beings on different planes of existence to share what they have learned, telepathically, with the rest of the world. They are able to be the bridges between the two dimensions of existence without allowing either to affect them but still providing a channel of communication.
Real psychic mediums know that the spirits that they communicate with are not all the same and that it is possible that they do not have the information that people seek. They might connect with the spirit but they are always aware of the fact that they might not be able to get information from it. The real psychic medium will tell the seeker what really transpired without any fudging of edges because he or she is in a state of trance which does not allow for any duplicity. There has been quantified evidence that it is possible to communicate with spirits from the world beyond and their presence has been recorded as ectoplasm leaching out of the medium that has connected with the spirit. Real psychic mediums use their connections with the spirit world to ensure living beings that the recently deceased person has resolved his/her present status or tries to get information that will help resolve issues that those left behind in this world have to face. Mediums have been able to help in solving crimes, finding missing things or people and helping people to move on in their life after the loss of a loved one.
Sarah Saxon works for the psychic & metaphysical arena and is a reiki master. [http://www.psychicsrealm.co.uk/]online psychics [http://www.psychicsight.co.uk/]psychics
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Real-Psychic-Mediums&id=6688297] Real Psychic Mediums
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Live Like They Are Dying
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Tricia_K_Johnson]Tricia K Johnson
"Ye shall not surely die." We read that one sentence and if we know anything at all about the Bible, we know that this was the statement that the serpent made to Eve when she contemplated taking of the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. "Ye shall not surely die." She believed his lie and ate the fruit. But Eve did die. Spiritually, she died that day; later, she died physically. Her sin immediately separated her from her God and she found herself in desperate need of a Redeemer.
The idea of death seems ludicrous to us. We are genuinely taken by surprise when someone dies, even if they've had a terminal illness and we were told death was imminent. We always hold out a hope, to the end, that is completely unreasonable in the face of medical logic and sometimes even in the face of their symptoms. We deny it. Denial is even a stage of grief; we just can't really grasp that they are truly gone and will never come back. It's as though the very idea is just ludicrous. It usually happens to other people; it's unreasonable to us. We think, "They shall not surely die!" But, they often do die; and it's not really so mysterious.
When our son was deployed to Iraq the first time, we had to face a reality that I fought with all my might. We had to sign Power of Attorney papers to cover the affairs of our 19-year-old son because he might not come home. We had to face the daily news and hear how many Marines died that day, if any, knowing that some of them were in the same platoon as our son. The idea that my son could die was unthinkable, yet it became a very real possibility. Because my daughter was also a Marine at that time, I learned from her that if he was injured, we would get a phone call. But if he was killed, we would have Marines, in their full dress blues, at our door. One day during his deployment, I was out running errands. As I turned onto our street on my way home, I realized with a start that the SUV in front of me had a license plate that said NAVY - it was an official US Navy SUV. The Marines are a division of the Navy. I knew that the Marine Corps did not have chaplains of their own; they had Navy chaplains. My heart sank and my hands began to shake uncontrollably. As I followed them, they pulled into my closest neighbor's driveway, right beside my house. I was not encouraged because people had often mistaken that driveway for ours. I parked in my driveway as fast as I could and ran into the house. Still wearing my coat, I stood by the front window where I could clearly see the SUV. I was completely transfixed on that SUV and I felt sick. I became so nauseated that I felt like I was going to be sick. I was still shaking. For 5 full minutes, the people inside the SUV just sat there. All the windows were dark so I couldn't see them at all. While I waited and stared, I made a plan. I simply would not answer the door. If they came to my house, I would just let the doorbell ring and not answer it. That was my solution to possibly hearing that my son was dead. Denial.
As soon as the plan formed in my head, the door of the SUV slowly opened. I held my breath, afraid to see who got out, but unable to take my eyes off that SUV. Finally, a man got out wearing blue jeans and a sweatshirt and went next door. No Marines were coming to my house. I collapsed at the knees and sobbed in relief. It was one of the scariest days of my life. While my relief was incredibly sweet, the reality was also brought right to my face. My son could surely die. It was no longer unthinkable; it was reality. I was fearfully startled. I stepped up my already frequent prayers for him.
Country Music artist, Tim McGraw, sings a song called "Live Like You are Dying." The song depicts a man who, in his early 40's, is diagnosed with a serious illness. His response is to do all the things he had been putting off till he was older. The song shows how time is a gift; that the diagnosis itself was a gift because it helped him see how short and fragile life really is. It helped him to embrace life and do things instead of putting them off. As Christians, we know how fragile life is. The Bible teaches us that "It is appointed unto man once to die" (Hebrews 9:27). It teaches us that there is a "time to be born and a time to die" (Ecclesiastes 3:2) Death is real; death is inevitable and death will come to everyone.
Satan's lie, "Ye shall not surely die" is just that - a lie. It's so plausible and so much more inviting than the reality-based alternative, that we quickly embrace the idea that we have all the time in the world. We shall not surely die! The reality is, we shall all surely die. It's really not ludicrous at all.
Because of recent flooding in our part of MN, a portion of a road over a culvert recently washed out. A driver came upon this and discovered a 20 foot portion of the road missing with 15 feet of flood waters beneath it. He called 911 and was told that they could not get there for a period of time. The man left, going on his way, leaving no warning of the missing road. Another man was driving along the road at 55 mph and didn't see the missing portion of the road until it was too late. Because of the way the road dipped, it was nearly impossible to see until you were right upon it. The man's truck went right into the pit at 55 mph and he was killed. Soon, another car did the same thing, but the travelers survived. They helped discover the man under the water because they realized that their vehicle was sitting on top of another one. It was quite a tragedy. My husband and I drove out to see the scene and it was very traumatic and unnerving. I didn't like being out there and wanted to leave. Perhaps the man who drove away leaving no warning thought, "Surely no one will die." Perhaps the man in the truck survived the impact only to drown, thinking, "I surely won't die." He did die.
This is not a pleasant topic and I know many Christians who avoid it altogether. But, as Christians, we don't have to fear death. While we may feel, and rightly so, that we don't want to die and leave loved ones behind, our eternity is sealed and there is no personal fear for ourselves. A world without Christ - our neighbors - have no such confidence. The best they can do is hope with a worldly hope that they are "good enough" to get into Heaven. We have the opportunity to show them, through our lives, and our words, the Way, the Truth and the Life. Send out the signal! It's urgent! The song says, "Live like you are dying." Not bad advice. As Christians we can say, "Live like they are dying," because they are. http://tuesdaytheology.blogspot.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Live-Like-They-Are-Dying&id=6690086] Live Like They Are Dying
"Ye shall not surely die." We read that one sentence and if we know anything at all about the Bible, we know that this was the statement that the serpent made to Eve when she contemplated taking of the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. "Ye shall not surely die." She believed his lie and ate the fruit. But Eve did die. Spiritually, she died that day; later, she died physically. Her sin immediately separated her from her God and she found herself in desperate need of a Redeemer.
The idea of death seems ludicrous to us. We are genuinely taken by surprise when someone dies, even if they've had a terminal illness and we were told death was imminent. We always hold out a hope, to the end, that is completely unreasonable in the face of medical logic and sometimes even in the face of their symptoms. We deny it. Denial is even a stage of grief; we just can't really grasp that they are truly gone and will never come back. It's as though the very idea is just ludicrous. It usually happens to other people; it's unreasonable to us. We think, "They shall not surely die!" But, they often do die; and it's not really so mysterious.
When our son was deployed to Iraq the first time, we had to face a reality that I fought with all my might. We had to sign Power of Attorney papers to cover the affairs of our 19-year-old son because he might not come home. We had to face the daily news and hear how many Marines died that day, if any, knowing that some of them were in the same platoon as our son. The idea that my son could die was unthinkable, yet it became a very real possibility. Because my daughter was also a Marine at that time, I learned from her that if he was injured, we would get a phone call. But if he was killed, we would have Marines, in their full dress blues, at our door. One day during his deployment, I was out running errands. As I turned onto our street on my way home, I realized with a start that the SUV in front of me had a license plate that said NAVY - it was an official US Navy SUV. The Marines are a division of the Navy. I knew that the Marine Corps did not have chaplains of their own; they had Navy chaplains. My heart sank and my hands began to shake uncontrollably. As I followed them, they pulled into my closest neighbor's driveway, right beside my house. I was not encouraged because people had often mistaken that driveway for ours. I parked in my driveway as fast as I could and ran into the house. Still wearing my coat, I stood by the front window where I could clearly see the SUV. I was completely transfixed on that SUV and I felt sick. I became so nauseated that I felt like I was going to be sick. I was still shaking. For 5 full minutes, the people inside the SUV just sat there. All the windows were dark so I couldn't see them at all. While I waited and stared, I made a plan. I simply would not answer the door. If they came to my house, I would just let the doorbell ring and not answer it. That was my solution to possibly hearing that my son was dead. Denial.
As soon as the plan formed in my head, the door of the SUV slowly opened. I held my breath, afraid to see who got out, but unable to take my eyes off that SUV. Finally, a man got out wearing blue jeans and a sweatshirt and went next door. No Marines were coming to my house. I collapsed at the knees and sobbed in relief. It was one of the scariest days of my life. While my relief was incredibly sweet, the reality was also brought right to my face. My son could surely die. It was no longer unthinkable; it was reality. I was fearfully startled. I stepped up my already frequent prayers for him.
Country Music artist, Tim McGraw, sings a song called "Live Like You are Dying." The song depicts a man who, in his early 40's, is diagnosed with a serious illness. His response is to do all the things he had been putting off till he was older. The song shows how time is a gift; that the diagnosis itself was a gift because it helped him see how short and fragile life really is. It helped him to embrace life and do things instead of putting them off. As Christians, we know how fragile life is. The Bible teaches us that "It is appointed unto man once to die" (Hebrews 9:27). It teaches us that there is a "time to be born and a time to die" (Ecclesiastes 3:2) Death is real; death is inevitable and death will come to everyone.
Satan's lie, "Ye shall not surely die" is just that - a lie. It's so plausible and so much more inviting than the reality-based alternative, that we quickly embrace the idea that we have all the time in the world. We shall not surely die! The reality is, we shall all surely die. It's really not ludicrous at all.
Because of recent flooding in our part of MN, a portion of a road over a culvert recently washed out. A driver came upon this and discovered a 20 foot portion of the road missing with 15 feet of flood waters beneath it. He called 911 and was told that they could not get there for a period of time. The man left, going on his way, leaving no warning of the missing road. Another man was driving along the road at 55 mph and didn't see the missing portion of the road until it was too late. Because of the way the road dipped, it was nearly impossible to see until you were right upon it. The man's truck went right into the pit at 55 mph and he was killed. Soon, another car did the same thing, but the travelers survived. They helped discover the man under the water because they realized that their vehicle was sitting on top of another one. It was quite a tragedy. My husband and I drove out to see the scene and it was very traumatic and unnerving. I didn't like being out there and wanted to leave. Perhaps the man who drove away leaving no warning thought, "Surely no one will die." Perhaps the man in the truck survived the impact only to drown, thinking, "I surely won't die." He did die.
This is not a pleasant topic and I know many Christians who avoid it altogether. But, as Christians, we don't have to fear death. While we may feel, and rightly so, that we don't want to die and leave loved ones behind, our eternity is sealed and there is no personal fear for ourselves. A world without Christ - our neighbors - have no such confidence. The best they can do is hope with a worldly hope that they are "good enough" to get into Heaven. We have the opportunity to show them, through our lives, and our words, the Way, the Truth and the Life. Send out the signal! It's urgent! The song says, "Live like you are dying." Not bad advice. As Christians we can say, "Live like they are dying," because they are. http://tuesdaytheology.blogspot.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Live-Like-They-Are-Dying&id=6690086] Live Like They Are Dying
Friday, December 16, 2011
Funny Films to Start Serious Funeral Planning Conversations
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Gail_Rubin]Gail Rubin
Funny films can open the door to starting serious conversations about funeral planning issues. Watching and laughing lead to thinking and talking, then, perhaps, to getting organized and taking action.
So many folks won't talk about funeral planning issues because they don't want to be morbid, or they think it will jinx their lives. Of course, that's a fantasy. Watching comedy films is fun and easy to do. Having a conversation about a movie can lead into a conversation about one's own end-of-life arrangements.
These are a few of the funny funeral films I recommend to start funeral planning conversations:
Harold and Maude (1971) starring Ruth Gordon and Bud Cort is a cult classic! Cort is Harold, a young man bored with wealth but interested in death, and Gordon is Maude, a wonderful old lady who can see nothing but good intentions in the world. They meet by attending the funerals of strangers. Her philosophy of life and death is enlightening.
The Big Lebowski (1998) starring Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Julianne Moore, Steve Buscemi. Another cult classic, this off-the-wall comedy was directed by the Coen brothers. A hilariously quirky comedy-thriller about bowling, avant-garde art, nihilistic Austrians, and a guy named The Dude. It is instructive for the scenes with the funeral director and ash scattering toward the end of the movie.
Waking Ned Devine (1998) starring Ian Bannen and David Kelly. When Ned Devine dies from shock after winning the lottery, two longtime friends, Michael and Jackie, discover the body and agree Ned would want them to benefit from his good luck. They embark upon an outrageous scheme to claim the jackpot by getting all the townsfolk to go along with their plan. Ned Devine's funeral scene raises the idea of being present at one's own life celebration and hearing what people would say about you.
Undertaking Betty (2002) starring Brenda Blethyn, Alfred Molina and Christopher Walken. Stuck in a marriage that's killing her, Betty (Blethyn) thinks the only way to break from her two-timing scoundrel of a husband is to fake her own death! With the help of her rekindled old flame, the local undertaker (Molina), a quiet funeral is planned down to the smallest detail - but of course, nothing goes as planned. This film is especially instructive regarding personalized funerals produced by the only competing funeral director in town, who flamboyantly puts the "fun" in funerals (Walken).
Death at a Funeral (2007 UK version or 2010 US version) Both films follow the same story line: a family converges at a home funeral where many elements go awry and family secrets are exposed. The US version features an African-American cast headed up by Chris Rock and Martin Lawrence. The films also raise issues regarding how to pay for a funeral and create a good eulogy.
Get Low (2010) starring Robert Duvall, Bill Murray, and Sissy Spacek. Bill Murray as the funeral director provides much of the comedy in this low-key film. It's based on the true story of a Depression-era man who threw himself a "funeral party" while he was still alive to hear what people would say about him. The film is instructive for those who might consider holding a living memorial service before they or someone else dies.
Most of these films are available as rentals, so check out a few, have a movie night at home, and start the conversation today!
Gail Rubin is a Certified Celebrant and author of The Family Plot Blog and A Good Goodbye: Funeral Planning for Those Who Don't Plan to Die. She speaks to audiences using funny film clips to start funeral planning conversations. For information on additional films, visit http://agoodgoodbye.com/to-die-for-shopping/funeral-films/ or http://TheFamilyPlot.wordpress.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Funny-Films-to-Start-Serious-Funeral-Planning-Conversations&id=6692601] Funny Films to Start Serious Funeral Planning Conversations
Funny films can open the door to starting serious conversations about funeral planning issues. Watching and laughing lead to thinking and talking, then, perhaps, to getting organized and taking action.
So many folks won't talk about funeral planning issues because they don't want to be morbid, or they think it will jinx their lives. Of course, that's a fantasy. Watching comedy films is fun and easy to do. Having a conversation about a movie can lead into a conversation about one's own end-of-life arrangements.
These are a few of the funny funeral films I recommend to start funeral planning conversations:
Harold and Maude (1971) starring Ruth Gordon and Bud Cort is a cult classic! Cort is Harold, a young man bored with wealth but interested in death, and Gordon is Maude, a wonderful old lady who can see nothing but good intentions in the world. They meet by attending the funerals of strangers. Her philosophy of life and death is enlightening.
The Big Lebowski (1998) starring Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Julianne Moore, Steve Buscemi. Another cult classic, this off-the-wall comedy was directed by the Coen brothers. A hilariously quirky comedy-thriller about bowling, avant-garde art, nihilistic Austrians, and a guy named The Dude. It is instructive for the scenes with the funeral director and ash scattering toward the end of the movie.
Waking Ned Devine (1998) starring Ian Bannen and David Kelly. When Ned Devine dies from shock after winning the lottery, two longtime friends, Michael and Jackie, discover the body and agree Ned would want them to benefit from his good luck. They embark upon an outrageous scheme to claim the jackpot by getting all the townsfolk to go along with their plan. Ned Devine's funeral scene raises the idea of being present at one's own life celebration and hearing what people would say about you.
Undertaking Betty (2002) starring Brenda Blethyn, Alfred Molina and Christopher Walken. Stuck in a marriage that's killing her, Betty (Blethyn) thinks the only way to break from her two-timing scoundrel of a husband is to fake her own death! With the help of her rekindled old flame, the local undertaker (Molina), a quiet funeral is planned down to the smallest detail - but of course, nothing goes as planned. This film is especially instructive regarding personalized funerals produced by the only competing funeral director in town, who flamboyantly puts the "fun" in funerals (Walken).
Death at a Funeral (2007 UK version or 2010 US version) Both films follow the same story line: a family converges at a home funeral where many elements go awry and family secrets are exposed. The US version features an African-American cast headed up by Chris Rock and Martin Lawrence. The films also raise issues regarding how to pay for a funeral and create a good eulogy.
Get Low (2010) starring Robert Duvall, Bill Murray, and Sissy Spacek. Bill Murray as the funeral director provides much of the comedy in this low-key film. It's based on the true story of a Depression-era man who threw himself a "funeral party" while he was still alive to hear what people would say about him. The film is instructive for those who might consider holding a living memorial service before they or someone else dies.
Most of these films are available as rentals, so check out a few, have a movie night at home, and start the conversation today!
Gail Rubin is a Certified Celebrant and author of The Family Plot Blog and A Good Goodbye: Funeral Planning for Those Who Don't Plan to Die. She speaks to audiences using funny film clips to start funeral planning conversations. For information on additional films, visit http://agoodgoodbye.com/to-die-for-shopping/funeral-films/ or http://TheFamilyPlot.wordpress.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Funny-Films-to-Start-Serious-Funeral-Planning-Conversations&id=6692601] Funny Films to Start Serious Funeral Planning Conversations
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Speakers At A Funeral
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jason_D_Burch]Jason D Burch
During a funeral, a keynote speaker is required to speak in front of family and friends regarding the deceased individual. This is where a speaker discusses with the listeners about how they knew the person and how they lived. Usually there are funeral parlor personnel in charge of speaking for the families behalf or in case there are no family members who are present. Also, during the wake relatives and friends are welcomed to speak in front to give their final respects for the deceased. Read about the several topics a keynote speaker will utilize when speaking at a wake or who the different speakers are welcomed to talk and pay their last respects.
Family and Relatives - Mostly family and relatives are the one to talk in front of the attendees about the deceased. They would tell stories about that person, unforgettable moments that they have spent with them and how they have touched their lives. for family members, it will be really hard for them to pay their last respects so one member of the family is enough to speak in front and say something about that individual. A keynote speaker talking about their experiences with that person, won't help but get teary eyed so be sure that when paying your last respects make it brief and meaningful.
Friends and Acquaintances - They are asked to be keynote speakers and speak something regarding that individual. These are the people that the individual has connected with and have shared a drink or two or have helped in a way. They have come to that persons funeral to pay their respects and in order to do that they are willing to speak in from and say a few words regarding that person inside the coffin. They might have been best friends or they might have known each other since they were kids, either way they are going to be missing them very badly.
Burial - During the burial all the person who attended the wake must be present for the last time because this is the final time that they are going to see that person. After that they will either be buried or cremated. The rel=nofollow [http://www.dobbo.com.au/corporate]keynote speakers during the burial will be the priest or minister or Rabbi. They will speak passages from the bible or the Torah and bless the coffin and the deceased. This is to ensure that the person will be accepted in the kingdom of heaven. These are just some of the religious rituals that any priest, minister or Rabbi performs before a person is buried. There are different rituals depending on the religion of the person to be buried.
Will Reading - These will readings are done when a person leaves behind some possessions to certain individuals which they have deemed worthy to have their things. Lawyers are the keynote speaker during these readings and they are there with the relatives and friends to point our who receives the possessions that the deceased has left behind.
More things to learn about these keynote speakers at a funeral by vising and browsing our website at [http://www.dobbo.com.au/corporate]http://www.dobbo.com.au/corporate.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Speakers-At-A-Funeral&id=6690966] Speakers At A Funeral
During a funeral, a keynote speaker is required to speak in front of family and friends regarding the deceased individual. This is where a speaker discusses with the listeners about how they knew the person and how they lived. Usually there are funeral parlor personnel in charge of speaking for the families behalf or in case there are no family members who are present. Also, during the wake relatives and friends are welcomed to speak in front to give their final respects for the deceased. Read about the several topics a keynote speaker will utilize when speaking at a wake or who the different speakers are welcomed to talk and pay their last respects.
Family and Relatives - Mostly family and relatives are the one to talk in front of the attendees about the deceased. They would tell stories about that person, unforgettable moments that they have spent with them and how they have touched their lives. for family members, it will be really hard for them to pay their last respects so one member of the family is enough to speak in front and say something about that individual. A keynote speaker talking about their experiences with that person, won't help but get teary eyed so be sure that when paying your last respects make it brief and meaningful.
Friends and Acquaintances - They are asked to be keynote speakers and speak something regarding that individual. These are the people that the individual has connected with and have shared a drink or two or have helped in a way. They have come to that persons funeral to pay their respects and in order to do that they are willing to speak in from and say a few words regarding that person inside the coffin. They might have been best friends or they might have known each other since they were kids, either way they are going to be missing them very badly.
Burial - During the burial all the person who attended the wake must be present for the last time because this is the final time that they are going to see that person. After that they will either be buried or cremated. The rel=nofollow [http://www.dobbo.com.au/corporate]keynote speakers during the burial will be the priest or minister or Rabbi. They will speak passages from the bible or the Torah and bless the coffin and the deceased. This is to ensure that the person will be accepted in the kingdom of heaven. These are just some of the religious rituals that any priest, minister or Rabbi performs before a person is buried. There are different rituals depending on the religion of the person to be buried.
Will Reading - These will readings are done when a person leaves behind some possessions to certain individuals which they have deemed worthy to have their things. Lawyers are the keynote speaker during these readings and they are there with the relatives and friends to point our who receives the possessions that the deceased has left behind.
More things to learn about these keynote speakers at a funeral by vising and browsing our website at [http://www.dobbo.com.au/corporate]http://www.dobbo.com.au/corporate.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Speakers-At-A-Funeral&id=6690966] Speakers At A Funeral
Monday, December 12, 2011
How Do I Write a Will?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=James_Andy_Price]James Andy Price
Well, the good news is that you are already thinking about writing a Will! The biggest barrier to writing a Will in the UK is the 'I'll get around to it one day' syndrome, so please once you have read this article and associated related article 'Why do I need a Will' and it will give you peace of mind.
Is the Will just for you or for your partner / spouse as it is good practice to write Wills for both of you at the same time, often referred to as 'Mirror Wills' (so called because of the similarity in contact with just a change in name).
Make a list of all your possessions plus consider your wishes around any sentimental items that may be of little intrinsic value but you want to ensure they are given to the right people. You should also consider your wishes for the subject that none of us like to talk about and that's dying! What type of funeral do you want, do you want a particular hymn or piece of music?
So you've now thought about what you want to include in the Will, so where is the best place to go for value for money? This will depend on your personal needs and situation. There are plenty of online specialists Will Writers. Whoever you use make sure they are professionally recognised, either a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practioners, the Institute of Professional Will Writers or the Society of Will Writers. You should find this information on the Company's website, if not, call and ask them.
Specialist Will Writers are likely to be the cheapest option, starting at around �50 or �75 for a single Will - which is the simplest and most straight forward. Other more complex options will be available at a greater cost depending on your needs.
This is also the ideal time to consider how you will pay for the Funeral, currently costing around �3000, various options such as use of savings, rel=nofollow [http://www.over50choices.co.uk/]Over 50 Life Insurance and Prepaid Funeral Plans.
Solicitors and Banks are your high street options and whilst they are likely to be more expensive, you are able to discuss and arrange them face to face. Some specialist Will Writing Companies also offer home visits at a small extra cost if you prefer.
All of the Will Writing service providers will be able to advise you on whether you are likely to require probate or tax planning services in order to reduce the burden of paying more tax. Some more complex tax planning will involve the setting up of Trusts, but these are more likely to only be required when there is a reasonable sized estate and/or unusual complexities.
In summary go and make a Will today and tell your family and friends to do the same. It's a good after dinner topic of conversation!
James writes for http://www.over50choices.co.uk a source of valuable information for the Over 50s who want to know more about Life Planning, something most of us don't like to talk about.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-Do-I-Write-a-Will?&id=6671681] How Do I Write a Will?
Well, the good news is that you are already thinking about writing a Will! The biggest barrier to writing a Will in the UK is the 'I'll get around to it one day' syndrome, so please once you have read this article and associated related article 'Why do I need a Will' and it will give you peace of mind.
Is the Will just for you or for your partner / spouse as it is good practice to write Wills for both of you at the same time, often referred to as 'Mirror Wills' (so called because of the similarity in contact with just a change in name).
Make a list of all your possessions plus consider your wishes around any sentimental items that may be of little intrinsic value but you want to ensure they are given to the right people. You should also consider your wishes for the subject that none of us like to talk about and that's dying! What type of funeral do you want, do you want a particular hymn or piece of music?
So you've now thought about what you want to include in the Will, so where is the best place to go for value for money? This will depend on your personal needs and situation. There are plenty of online specialists Will Writers. Whoever you use make sure they are professionally recognised, either a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practioners, the Institute of Professional Will Writers or the Society of Will Writers. You should find this information on the Company's website, if not, call and ask them.
Specialist Will Writers are likely to be the cheapest option, starting at around �50 or �75 for a single Will - which is the simplest and most straight forward. Other more complex options will be available at a greater cost depending on your needs.
This is also the ideal time to consider how you will pay for the Funeral, currently costing around �3000, various options such as use of savings, rel=nofollow [http://www.over50choices.co.uk/]Over 50 Life Insurance and Prepaid Funeral Plans.
Solicitors and Banks are your high street options and whilst they are likely to be more expensive, you are able to discuss and arrange them face to face. Some specialist Will Writing Companies also offer home visits at a small extra cost if you prefer.
All of the Will Writing service providers will be able to advise you on whether you are likely to require probate or tax planning services in order to reduce the burden of paying more tax. Some more complex tax planning will involve the setting up of Trusts, but these are more likely to only be required when there is a reasonable sized estate and/or unusual complexities.
In summary go and make a Will today and tell your family and friends to do the same. It's a good after dinner topic of conversation!
James writes for http://www.over50choices.co.uk a source of valuable information for the Over 50s who want to know more about Life Planning, something most of us don't like to talk about.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-Do-I-Write-a-Will?&id=6671681] How Do I Write a Will?
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Memorial Folders Funeral Software
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Matt_Frazer]Matt Frazer
Memorial folders can be created in-house by a funeral professional and are an excellent keepsake for client families.
Funeral directors often create memorial folders in memory of the deceased for client families. They are an excellent idea because they are suitable for anyone who wants to create a memorial small enough to be carried with them every day.
Memorial folders are easy to create using funeral software that contains pre-formatted templates and hundreds of themes. Each keepsake can contain a photo, specific, personal details, and enough space for a memorial verse or brief obituary.
Funeral memorial templates help funeral professionals create a keepsake that give mourners and friends a true sense of their loved ones personal style. This type of keepsake will be always treasured.
Providing families the opportunity to find just the right theme from the comfort and convenience of their own home is now possible too. The funeral home can simply add a link to the funeral software companies online theme viewer. Not only will it be more convenient for the funeral professional in the selection process, but it will show new families how important personalization is to your funeral home.
Once the template has been chosen, using the funeral software, funeral directors can easily create these memorial folders in-house using ready-made pre-scored blank card stock and a color printer. The blank stock is 8-1/2 x 14 and can be used to create two cards per piece. The blank stock for memorial folders is sold in quantities of a thousand pieces per order. As an added benefit, this type of stock can also be used to print acknowledgement cards.
Because the funeral software is so versatile, pretty much anything the family wishes, can be used in the memorial folder. Normally a photo will be on the front alone, or with the name and dates. A verse, prayer, obituary, or poem usually will be on the inside left page. The service information will be on the inside right page, and any additional text can be included on the back. Creating a unique memorial keepsake is easy because it allows the funeral professional to even change the fonts, graphics and colors with a few clicks of the mouse.
Including more than one photo, personal family poems, sayings or goodbyes can be also included to make the memorial folder truly unique. Keep in mind, the better the photo quality, the better the printed version will be. Professionally done photos are usually the best, but most snapshots are also acceptable.
With the proper funeral software, memorial folders are easier than ever to create and are as beautiful and unique as the loved one who has passed away.
The best place on the web to learn more about [http://www.frazerconsultants.com]memorial folders and funeral stationery is Frazer Consultants. This company has a solid reputation of developing high performing and reliable technology for the death care industry. They also have a beautiful selection of funeral keepsakes and holiday remembrance ornaments.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Memorial-Folders-Funeral-Software&id=6697182] Memorial Folders Funeral Software
Memorial folders can be created in-house by a funeral professional and are an excellent keepsake for client families.
Funeral directors often create memorial folders in memory of the deceased for client families. They are an excellent idea because they are suitable for anyone who wants to create a memorial small enough to be carried with them every day.
Memorial folders are easy to create using funeral software that contains pre-formatted templates and hundreds of themes. Each keepsake can contain a photo, specific, personal details, and enough space for a memorial verse or brief obituary.
Funeral memorial templates help funeral professionals create a keepsake that give mourners and friends a true sense of their loved ones personal style. This type of keepsake will be always treasured.
Providing families the opportunity to find just the right theme from the comfort and convenience of their own home is now possible too. The funeral home can simply add a link to the funeral software companies online theme viewer. Not only will it be more convenient for the funeral professional in the selection process, but it will show new families how important personalization is to your funeral home.
Once the template has been chosen, using the funeral software, funeral directors can easily create these memorial folders in-house using ready-made pre-scored blank card stock and a color printer. The blank stock is 8-1/2 x 14 and can be used to create two cards per piece. The blank stock for memorial folders is sold in quantities of a thousand pieces per order. As an added benefit, this type of stock can also be used to print acknowledgement cards.
Because the funeral software is so versatile, pretty much anything the family wishes, can be used in the memorial folder. Normally a photo will be on the front alone, or with the name and dates. A verse, prayer, obituary, or poem usually will be on the inside left page. The service information will be on the inside right page, and any additional text can be included on the back. Creating a unique memorial keepsake is easy because it allows the funeral professional to even change the fonts, graphics and colors with a few clicks of the mouse.
Including more than one photo, personal family poems, sayings or goodbyes can be also included to make the memorial folder truly unique. Keep in mind, the better the photo quality, the better the printed version will be. Professionally done photos are usually the best, but most snapshots are also acceptable.
With the proper funeral software, memorial folders are easier than ever to create and are as beautiful and unique as the loved one who has passed away.
The best place on the web to learn more about [http://www.frazerconsultants.com]memorial folders and funeral stationery is Frazer Consultants. This company has a solid reputation of developing high performing and reliable technology for the death care industry. They also have a beautiful selection of funeral keepsakes and holiday remembrance ornaments.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Memorial-Folders-Funeral-Software&id=6697182] Memorial Folders Funeral Software
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Funeral Stationery Funeral Software
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Matt_Frazer]Matt Frazer
Funerals are never easy occasions to attend or to organize, however the little details such as personalized funeral stationery and flowers can really make all the difference.
A funeral is usually the main chance for family and friends to truly get to say goodbye to their loved one. Funeral stationery can be an excellent way of expressing feelings for the loved one who has passed. It can include personal messages of remembrance that can be kept forever.
Funeral stationery can include a funeral register book, funeral programs, prayer cards, memorial bookmarks, acknowledgements, and memorial folders. Each of these items can be personalized with a theme, images and verbiage that helps tell the story of the person's life. This is no doubt provides family and friends with a fitting way to say goodbye.
The number of options for funeral stationery have really evolved over the years. In the past, funeral stationery was available in a restricted number of styles. Funeral directors ordered two or three different styles from printing companies, and then added the relevant names and dates to standard stock. With revolutionary changes to funeral software, now funeral professionals have access to hundreds of different themes for the stationery and can create them in-house from blank paper.
Funeral directors no longer must purchase pre-printed stock, they simply use blank stock and a robust funeral software This specialized funeral technology contains pre-formatted themes and an easy to use step-by-step onscreen guide that leads the funeral professional through the personalization and printing.
Families are able to select the theme, favorite quotes, a line or a passage from Scripture, or even a well-loved prayer as well as images of their loved one and other personal details. Themes consist of numerous options that reflect the faith, philosophy, career, hobby or life purpose of the individual.
This type of custom funeral product enables family and friends to infuse the distinct personality of the individual being remembered. Generic, impersonal funeral stationery has gone by the wayside. Funeral stationery has become a central part of the overall celebration of the life of the deceased. Paying careful attention to the look and feel is very important so that the funeral stationery is beautiful and inspirational.
Keeping up with today's funeral technology can be challenging; however, selecting a funeral consulting company that can provide you with the latest updates, technology and personalization options can result in satisfied client families and increased revenue opportunities for the funeral home.
The best place on the web to learn more about [http://www.frazerconsultants.com]funeral stationery and funeral software is Frazer Consultants. This company has a solid reputation of developing high performing and reliable technology for the death care industry. They also have a beautiful selection of funeral keepsakes and holiday remembrance ornaments.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Funeral-Stationery-Funeral-Software&id=6697178] Funeral Stationery Funeral Software
Funerals are never easy occasions to attend or to organize, however the little details such as personalized funeral stationery and flowers can really make all the difference.
A funeral is usually the main chance for family and friends to truly get to say goodbye to their loved one. Funeral stationery can be an excellent way of expressing feelings for the loved one who has passed. It can include personal messages of remembrance that can be kept forever.
Funeral stationery can include a funeral register book, funeral programs, prayer cards, memorial bookmarks, acknowledgements, and memorial folders. Each of these items can be personalized with a theme, images and verbiage that helps tell the story of the person's life. This is no doubt provides family and friends with a fitting way to say goodbye.
The number of options for funeral stationery have really evolved over the years. In the past, funeral stationery was available in a restricted number of styles. Funeral directors ordered two or three different styles from printing companies, and then added the relevant names and dates to standard stock. With revolutionary changes to funeral software, now funeral professionals have access to hundreds of different themes for the stationery and can create them in-house from blank paper.
Funeral directors no longer must purchase pre-printed stock, they simply use blank stock and a robust funeral software This specialized funeral technology contains pre-formatted themes and an easy to use step-by-step onscreen guide that leads the funeral professional through the personalization and printing.
Families are able to select the theme, favorite quotes, a line or a passage from Scripture, or even a well-loved prayer as well as images of their loved one and other personal details. Themes consist of numerous options that reflect the faith, philosophy, career, hobby or life purpose of the individual.
This type of custom funeral product enables family and friends to infuse the distinct personality of the individual being remembered. Generic, impersonal funeral stationery has gone by the wayside. Funeral stationery has become a central part of the overall celebration of the life of the deceased. Paying careful attention to the look and feel is very important so that the funeral stationery is beautiful and inspirational.
Keeping up with today's funeral technology can be challenging; however, selecting a funeral consulting company that can provide you with the latest updates, technology and personalization options can result in satisfied client families and increased revenue opportunities for the funeral home.
The best place on the web to learn more about [http://www.frazerconsultants.com]funeral stationery and funeral software is Frazer Consultants. This company has a solid reputation of developing high performing and reliable technology for the death care industry. They also have a beautiful selection of funeral keepsakes and holiday remembrance ornaments.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Funeral-Stationery-Funeral-Software&id=6697178] Funeral Stationery Funeral Software
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Memorial Headstone Tropes in Fiction
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Thom_Sanders]Thom Sanders
Headstones and gravestones are synonymous with mourning, loss and death in our culture, so it's unsurprising that we see them so frequently in films, on television, or read about them in books with such frequency. They can show us details about a character's life, remind us of the situation the character finds themselves in or give us an insight into a character's sense of loss. So, what are some of the tropes that keep cropping up for gravestones or memorial headstones again and again in the fiction we consume?
A favourite of war or fantasy films is the piece of wood, carved with a person's name, stuck in the spot they're buried. If characters are trekking a long way from civilisation and the worst happens, they'll make a headstone out of whatever is around. This often demonstrates how difficult life has become for the protagonists, but is also an excellent way of demonstrating the sense of loss and respect that they have regarding the person's death.
Crying by a gravestone is another theme that we frequently see, and we understand it as the character losing somebody close to them. This can be done at the start of a film so that we already know the character is dealing with loss, or can be after another character dies, giving us a window into the emotions of the protagonist. There is an additional variable to this trope, as we often see it coupled with a war memorial or field of gravestones from one of the world wars. This instantly tells us that the character was likely involved in the war and they are probably crying over friends they lost there or memories of their part in it.
Large, ornate gravestones are often a symbol of wealth or power in films and can be, especially when they're adorned with pillars, be a symbol of a dead patriarch. You'll often see these show up in films involving the mafia, or in films in which the protagonist's father dies. In the latter, the protagonist is likely to have felt distant from his father and the large, ornate headstone represents the dominance that the patriarch still holds over the character's life, even though he's dead.
There are plenty more tropes related to gravestones, and we haven't even touched upon horror film tropes, but this is a decent start. Pay attention in films you watch from now on and see if you notice any of them popping up.
This article was written by Thom Sanders on behalf of AK Lander, who provide a variety of [http://www.aklander.co.uk/shop/index.php]granite memorial designs and [http://www.aklander.co.uk/products.html]granite headstones.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Memorial-Headstone-Tropes-in-Fiction&id=6702204] Memorial Headstone Tropes in Fiction
Headstones and gravestones are synonymous with mourning, loss and death in our culture, so it's unsurprising that we see them so frequently in films, on television, or read about them in books with such frequency. They can show us details about a character's life, remind us of the situation the character finds themselves in or give us an insight into a character's sense of loss. So, what are some of the tropes that keep cropping up for gravestones or memorial headstones again and again in the fiction we consume?
A favourite of war or fantasy films is the piece of wood, carved with a person's name, stuck in the spot they're buried. If characters are trekking a long way from civilisation and the worst happens, they'll make a headstone out of whatever is around. This often demonstrates how difficult life has become for the protagonists, but is also an excellent way of demonstrating the sense of loss and respect that they have regarding the person's death.
Crying by a gravestone is another theme that we frequently see, and we understand it as the character losing somebody close to them. This can be done at the start of a film so that we already know the character is dealing with loss, or can be after another character dies, giving us a window into the emotions of the protagonist. There is an additional variable to this trope, as we often see it coupled with a war memorial or field of gravestones from one of the world wars. This instantly tells us that the character was likely involved in the war and they are probably crying over friends they lost there or memories of their part in it.
Large, ornate gravestones are often a symbol of wealth or power in films and can be, especially when they're adorned with pillars, be a symbol of a dead patriarch. You'll often see these show up in films involving the mafia, or in films in which the protagonist's father dies. In the latter, the protagonist is likely to have felt distant from his father and the large, ornate headstone represents the dominance that the patriarch still holds over the character's life, even though he's dead.
There are plenty more tropes related to gravestones, and we haven't even touched upon horror film tropes, but this is a decent start. Pay attention in films you watch from now on and see if you notice any of them popping up.
This article was written by Thom Sanders on behalf of AK Lander, who provide a variety of [http://www.aklander.co.uk/shop/index.php]granite memorial designs and [http://www.aklander.co.uk/products.html]granite headstones.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Memorial-Headstone-Tropes-in-Fiction&id=6702204] Memorial Headstone Tropes in Fiction
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Communicating Through Life and Death, and the Personal Example of Steve Jobs
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Claire_Montanaro]Claire Montanaro
When an entity is hovering between life and death, the opportunities for healing and growth are enormous, and as importantly new channels of communication are opened up.
I am talking about life and death in the human sense, as it is generally understood to be, but life and death is symbolic also and applicable far beyond our mortal world. The process can be energetic and inter-dimensional, affecting Gaia and that which lies far beyond our planet, it can be emotional, mental, part of a spiritual initiation or the death of a culture. Life and death is part of everything and occurs all the time, even in ways as small as the death of a hair on your head: in its way it too, like everything, has had its choice of living or dying.
If anything or anyone is at the point of this ultimate surrender, one way or another, the soul of the being is in an exalted state of spiritual limitlessness. The soul knows this and so, of course, does Spirit, but often those who are observers or indirect participants do not understand that this is a point in time where they too can be involved - the souls being willing - through communication of the profound and powerful. Soul may talk with soul and the human beings which are their vessels can be involved also; the veil is allowed to drop.
Choices about life and death are visible all around us now as the old ways begin to drop away, and people are at the point of determining if and how they will be a part of the new epoch. If someone close to you is confronting death or life, remember that even if the individual is far distant, this is a time when you can communicate everything you wish to say effortlessly, through heart and soul, and s/he will hear you and will respond, and you will hear also: you may even see them with you, bright and vibrant and in joy in the gift of life and of death that they have been given. Do not attempt to direct their choice for it is theirs alone to make, but know your love and your wisdom will do much to help them, whatever they choose to do. It will, most certainly, help you too.
As he faced the prospect of dying from cancer, Steve Jobs made a speech about life and death, saying, "Death is the destination we all share... it is the single best invention of life."
As he confronted his own mortality he was acknowledging his fears and, perhaps, writing his own epitaph while giving to the world one of the most important gifts of learning. He was saying that to be fearful as death approaches is understandable, but to remember that death is inevitable and is necessary - he called it a clearing out, but I would call it a new beginning.
The key message of his address was that, in the knowledge that life is finite, we should do all we can to find and live our joy in this life which we have been given. We must not settle for second best but must love our work and our life, for thereby comes fulfilment and achievement. He was right.
He was speaking to university students when he spoke, young men and women looking forward to a successful professional life, his energy and passion surely inspirational to them. His words apply not just to people in the corporate world, however, but to everyone, for joy comes in many forms, often simple - the joy of a shepherd watching new-born lambs playing on a wind-swept mountain, of a mother committing herself to the welfare of her children, of a monk praying in the fastness of a remote monastery, of a music-lover hearing wonderful music. Even birds and animals know how to live in joy.
Steve Jobs has been described as a visionary, but he had a vision that went far beyond state of the art technology. He was an example of limitless thinking and self-belief, nothing was impossible and he wanted to share his gifts with the world. As he realised his destination with death yesterday, I suspect there was little fear in him, after all, but immense joy in his new beginning.
Claire Montanaro is a skilled and sought after spiritual teacher, speaker, lecturer and author, with a reputation for inspiring and empowering her clients, students and audience. Based in Wales, her heartfelt desire is to assist people to actualise their total connectedness to all that is. Additionally, she offers a global philosophy for living and being in the new age for all seekers of truth. Seven simple yet intensely profound Principles form the core of her teaching, the practice of which embodies the New Consciousness and is a catalyst for One-ness. Her book "Spiritual Wisdom" is published by Piatkus Books. Her website can be found at http://www.inluminoglobal.co.uk where you can read more articles like this in her regularly updated Thoughts for the Day (blog).
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Communicating-Through-Life-and-Death,-and-the-Personal-Example-of-Steve-Jobs&id=6702017] Communicating Through Life and Death, and the Personal Example of Steve Jobs
When an entity is hovering between life and death, the opportunities for healing and growth are enormous, and as importantly new channels of communication are opened up.
I am talking about life and death in the human sense, as it is generally understood to be, but life and death is symbolic also and applicable far beyond our mortal world. The process can be energetic and inter-dimensional, affecting Gaia and that which lies far beyond our planet, it can be emotional, mental, part of a spiritual initiation or the death of a culture. Life and death is part of everything and occurs all the time, even in ways as small as the death of a hair on your head: in its way it too, like everything, has had its choice of living or dying.
If anything or anyone is at the point of this ultimate surrender, one way or another, the soul of the being is in an exalted state of spiritual limitlessness. The soul knows this and so, of course, does Spirit, but often those who are observers or indirect participants do not understand that this is a point in time where they too can be involved - the souls being willing - through communication of the profound and powerful. Soul may talk with soul and the human beings which are their vessels can be involved also; the veil is allowed to drop.
Choices about life and death are visible all around us now as the old ways begin to drop away, and people are at the point of determining if and how they will be a part of the new epoch. If someone close to you is confronting death or life, remember that even if the individual is far distant, this is a time when you can communicate everything you wish to say effortlessly, through heart and soul, and s/he will hear you and will respond, and you will hear also: you may even see them with you, bright and vibrant and in joy in the gift of life and of death that they have been given. Do not attempt to direct their choice for it is theirs alone to make, but know your love and your wisdom will do much to help them, whatever they choose to do. It will, most certainly, help you too.
As he faced the prospect of dying from cancer, Steve Jobs made a speech about life and death, saying, "Death is the destination we all share... it is the single best invention of life."
As he confronted his own mortality he was acknowledging his fears and, perhaps, writing his own epitaph while giving to the world one of the most important gifts of learning. He was saying that to be fearful as death approaches is understandable, but to remember that death is inevitable and is necessary - he called it a clearing out, but I would call it a new beginning.
The key message of his address was that, in the knowledge that life is finite, we should do all we can to find and live our joy in this life which we have been given. We must not settle for second best but must love our work and our life, for thereby comes fulfilment and achievement. He was right.
He was speaking to university students when he spoke, young men and women looking forward to a successful professional life, his energy and passion surely inspirational to them. His words apply not just to people in the corporate world, however, but to everyone, for joy comes in many forms, often simple - the joy of a shepherd watching new-born lambs playing on a wind-swept mountain, of a mother committing herself to the welfare of her children, of a monk praying in the fastness of a remote monastery, of a music-lover hearing wonderful music. Even birds and animals know how to live in joy.
Steve Jobs has been described as a visionary, but he had a vision that went far beyond state of the art technology. He was an example of limitless thinking and self-belief, nothing was impossible and he wanted to share his gifts with the world. As he realised his destination with death yesterday, I suspect there was little fear in him, after all, but immense joy in his new beginning.
Claire Montanaro is a skilled and sought after spiritual teacher, speaker, lecturer and author, with a reputation for inspiring and empowering her clients, students and audience. Based in Wales, her heartfelt desire is to assist people to actualise their total connectedness to all that is. Additionally, she offers a global philosophy for living and being in the new age for all seekers of truth. Seven simple yet intensely profound Principles form the core of her teaching, the practice of which embodies the New Consciousness and is a catalyst for One-ness. Her book "Spiritual Wisdom" is published by Piatkus Books. Her website can be found at http://www.inluminoglobal.co.uk where you can read more articles like this in her regularly updated Thoughts for the Day (blog).
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Communicating-Through-Life-and-Death,-and-the-Personal-Example-of-Steve-Jobs&id=6702017] Communicating Through Life and Death, and the Personal Example of Steve Jobs
Friday, December 2, 2011
10 Tips To Properly Organize A Funeral
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Elvie_Look]Elvie Look
Even though we all face dying, this is a topic we don't want to think about, let alone talk about. It seems too morbid! But do you want all those hard decisions thrust upon your family in such a difficult time? Do not leave the decision making to them, have your wishes down in writing.
Or perhaps you have recently lost a loved one and are having to deal with all the decision making and arrangements. At such a difficult time when you are in mourning and cannot think straight, it would be good to have a list to refer to and give some direction on what to do. Here is that list to make this difficult time easier for you or your loved ones.
1. Notify Authorities
If someone dies outside of the hospital or nursing home you need to notify the authorities. Call 911 or your local emergency number to report the death. They will likely then call the Coroner, but it is a good idea for you to do so also, especially when it involves a Death Insurance Policy. Notify their place of Employment. Also contact the Executor.
Eventually, other Authorities that need to be contacted are: Lawyer, Accountant, Insurance Companies, Health Insurance, Bank, Memberships to cancel, and Driver's license to cancel.
Be sure to get sufficient copies of the Death Certificate, as many companies (such as Banks and Insurance Companies) require a copy of the Death Certificate.
2. Contact Close Family and Friends
The police are required to notify the next of kin, but you will no doubt want to notify other members who would want to know and may have to start making travel arrangements. If you are making this list for yourself, note the names and numbers on the printable list attached of ones you would like to be notified in the event of your death.
If you are dealing with grief, you do not have to make all the calls. Perhaps call one family member from each side of the deceased's family and let them be responsible for notifying all of their family. Call a close friend and give them the list of ones you would like to be notified. There will be enough on your plate, so this narrows your phone calls to three.
Also, the phone will start ringing off the hook, and you will find yourself facing extreme exhaustion taking all of the calls and explaining the circumstances over and over. Have someone you can depend on to be there to take all the incoming calls.
3. Find The Will
This can be a challenge if you do not know where the will is, or the key to the Safety Deposit Box. It is a good idea to have a Fireproof Box. Inside the box should be important documents, instructions, the key to the Safety Deposit Box. In the advent of death, your family and loved ones know right where to go.
4. Gather Information
Gather information you will need for the completion of the Death Certificate with Vital Statistics, for the Funeral Director, and for Memorial Cards:
Parent's names, including middle initials
Social Security or Social Insurance Number
Date of Birth, Place of Birth, and Date of Death
Marriage Certificate
House and Land Titles
Place of Employment, name and address and occupation
Education 1-12
College 1-4 or 5+
Name of Father
Name of Mother (Maiden)
Names of Children
Special accomplishments of the deceased - athletic, political, religious, scientific
5. Burial Arrangements
The Funeral Director will guide you through much of this process, but knowing where this information is or having it ready will make this difficult time a little easier. Here are some of the things you need to consider:
Cremation or Embalming
The site for the Service, it could be a Church, Temple, Funeral Home or graveside
If Embalming, you will need to consider the type of burial
Clothing & Jewellery if having a traditional burial.
Cemetery plot - purchase one or have a copy of the Deed.
Urn or Type of Casket - wood, metal, or rough box
Open or closed Casket
Funeral or Memorial Service - service before or after the burial or cremation. Will there be a graveside ceremony?
Decide if you want the body or Remains at the service
6. Obituary
Compose an obituary. Information to Include:
Vital Statistics including where born, name of parents and the surviving family members
Memberships & Associations
Hobbies
Details about the funeral, the Funeral home friends may call, date and times, Service & burial time.
List of Newspapers to submit, Radio, and/or the Internet
7. Funeral Plans
Choose the type of service - a Funeral or Memorial Service
Choose the location of the Service & the luncheon - at a Church, Funeral Home or graveside
Eulogies - Decide who will deliver the eulogy. You will need to consult with them and provide them with information about the deceased as well as other details.
Appoint Pall Bearers - usually 4 to 6 men are needed
Choose Music - Some soothing instrumental, or songs that have special meaning, or perhaps a family friend will be a vocalist or instrumentalist
Choose Flower arrangements - for the Service, a casket spray
Choose Pictures - photo album or slide show in memory of the deceased's life
Props - There may be something that reflects the love and interest of the deceased
Memorial Cards - Will you have them printed or make your own
Guest Book - purchase a guest book for guests to sign as they arrive
Transportation - for the family to the service and to the grave site
Grave Marker - Choice of marker or stone, Engraving and Inscription on the Stone
Accommodations for out of town relatives, delegate ones who can assist with travel, and airport pickup
Legal Matters
8. Memorial Cards
Memorial Cards are small cards that the Funeral Home usually print as a testimony to the deceased. Or you will need to supply them with copies to be given to the attendees. Just a small touch but can mean so much in the memory of the deceased, and can give comfort to the ones who are grieving. They can be laminated and can include a thank note from the family, favourite photos, a prayer, scripture or religious song. With the convenience of the computer and software program, you can make your own. There are examples on the Internet.
9. Funeral Luncheon
Give thought to the location of the luncheon and who will cater it. Often many family and friends need to travel to attend the funeral, and so you will want to give some refreshments before they travel back. Possibly your Funeral Home provides that service for a fee, or a local Association, hire a Catering Company, or get friends to organize it.
10. Thank You Cards
You will need lots of cards to send out a thank you to friends and family and Associations. You may also want to submit a Thank You to your local newspaper.
Elvie Look: Your Professional Organizing Coach who is helping people get organized with her easy tips and suggestions. These systems help the busy mom, businessman or woman, �entrepreneur or student learn the keys to organizing in simple, actionable and manageable steps. She teaches how to get organized and maintain your organized space while carrying on your normal busy life. She is the author of "21 Steps From Chaos To Calm and "One-A-Day" Tips. http://elviesessentials.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?10-Tips-To-Properly-Organize-A-Funeral&id=6688984] 10 Tips To Properly Organize A Funeral
Even though we all face dying, this is a topic we don't want to think about, let alone talk about. It seems too morbid! But do you want all those hard decisions thrust upon your family in such a difficult time? Do not leave the decision making to them, have your wishes down in writing.
Or perhaps you have recently lost a loved one and are having to deal with all the decision making and arrangements. At such a difficult time when you are in mourning and cannot think straight, it would be good to have a list to refer to and give some direction on what to do. Here is that list to make this difficult time easier for you or your loved ones.
1. Notify Authorities
If someone dies outside of the hospital or nursing home you need to notify the authorities. Call 911 or your local emergency number to report the death. They will likely then call the Coroner, but it is a good idea for you to do so also, especially when it involves a Death Insurance Policy. Notify their place of Employment. Also contact the Executor.
Eventually, other Authorities that need to be contacted are: Lawyer, Accountant, Insurance Companies, Health Insurance, Bank, Memberships to cancel, and Driver's license to cancel.
Be sure to get sufficient copies of the Death Certificate, as many companies (such as Banks and Insurance Companies) require a copy of the Death Certificate.
2. Contact Close Family and Friends
The police are required to notify the next of kin, but you will no doubt want to notify other members who would want to know and may have to start making travel arrangements. If you are making this list for yourself, note the names and numbers on the printable list attached of ones you would like to be notified in the event of your death.
If you are dealing with grief, you do not have to make all the calls. Perhaps call one family member from each side of the deceased's family and let them be responsible for notifying all of their family. Call a close friend and give them the list of ones you would like to be notified. There will be enough on your plate, so this narrows your phone calls to three.
Also, the phone will start ringing off the hook, and you will find yourself facing extreme exhaustion taking all of the calls and explaining the circumstances over and over. Have someone you can depend on to be there to take all the incoming calls.
3. Find The Will
This can be a challenge if you do not know where the will is, or the key to the Safety Deposit Box. It is a good idea to have a Fireproof Box. Inside the box should be important documents, instructions, the key to the Safety Deposit Box. In the advent of death, your family and loved ones know right where to go.
4. Gather Information
Gather information you will need for the completion of the Death Certificate with Vital Statistics, for the Funeral Director, and for Memorial Cards:
Parent's names, including middle initials
Social Security or Social Insurance Number
Date of Birth, Place of Birth, and Date of Death
Marriage Certificate
House and Land Titles
Place of Employment, name and address and occupation
Education 1-12
College 1-4 or 5+
Name of Father
Name of Mother (Maiden)
Names of Children
Special accomplishments of the deceased - athletic, political, religious, scientific
5. Burial Arrangements
The Funeral Director will guide you through much of this process, but knowing where this information is or having it ready will make this difficult time a little easier. Here are some of the things you need to consider:
Cremation or Embalming
The site for the Service, it could be a Church, Temple, Funeral Home or graveside
If Embalming, you will need to consider the type of burial
Clothing & Jewellery if having a traditional burial.
Cemetery plot - purchase one or have a copy of the Deed.
Urn or Type of Casket - wood, metal, or rough box
Open or closed Casket
Funeral or Memorial Service - service before or after the burial or cremation. Will there be a graveside ceremony?
Decide if you want the body or Remains at the service
6. Obituary
Compose an obituary. Information to Include:
Vital Statistics including where born, name of parents and the surviving family members
Memberships & Associations
Hobbies
Details about the funeral, the Funeral home friends may call, date and times, Service & burial time.
List of Newspapers to submit, Radio, and/or the Internet
7. Funeral Plans
Choose the type of service - a Funeral or Memorial Service
Choose the location of the Service & the luncheon - at a Church, Funeral Home or graveside
Eulogies - Decide who will deliver the eulogy. You will need to consult with them and provide them with information about the deceased as well as other details.
Appoint Pall Bearers - usually 4 to 6 men are needed
Choose Music - Some soothing instrumental, or songs that have special meaning, or perhaps a family friend will be a vocalist or instrumentalist
Choose Flower arrangements - for the Service, a casket spray
Choose Pictures - photo album or slide show in memory of the deceased's life
Props - There may be something that reflects the love and interest of the deceased
Memorial Cards - Will you have them printed or make your own
Guest Book - purchase a guest book for guests to sign as they arrive
Transportation - for the family to the service and to the grave site
Grave Marker - Choice of marker or stone, Engraving and Inscription on the Stone
Accommodations for out of town relatives, delegate ones who can assist with travel, and airport pickup
Legal Matters
8. Memorial Cards
Memorial Cards are small cards that the Funeral Home usually print as a testimony to the deceased. Or you will need to supply them with copies to be given to the attendees. Just a small touch but can mean so much in the memory of the deceased, and can give comfort to the ones who are grieving. They can be laminated and can include a thank note from the family, favourite photos, a prayer, scripture or religious song. With the convenience of the computer and software program, you can make your own. There are examples on the Internet.
9. Funeral Luncheon
Give thought to the location of the luncheon and who will cater it. Often many family and friends need to travel to attend the funeral, and so you will want to give some refreshments before they travel back. Possibly your Funeral Home provides that service for a fee, or a local Association, hire a Catering Company, or get friends to organize it.
10. Thank You Cards
You will need lots of cards to send out a thank you to friends and family and Associations. You may also want to submit a Thank You to your local newspaper.
Elvie Look: Your Professional Organizing Coach who is helping people get organized with her easy tips and suggestions. These systems help the busy mom, businessman or woman, �entrepreneur or student learn the keys to organizing in simple, actionable and manageable steps. She teaches how to get organized and maintain your organized space while carrying on your normal busy life. She is the author of "21 Steps From Chaos To Calm and "One-A-Day" Tips. http://elviesessentials.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?10-Tips-To-Properly-Organize-A-Funeral&id=6688984] 10 Tips To Properly Organize A Funeral
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