Thinking about your own funeral or memorial service is never an easy task. It’s a topic that most people would rather avoid, but addressing it in advance can make a world of difference for your family and friends during a difficult time. Not only does it help relieve the burden of decision-making while they are grieving, but it also gives you the opportunity to ensure that your final wishes are honored in the way you envision.
Preplanning: A Powerful Way to Take Control
Nobody knows you better than yourself. You’ve likely considered what’s important to you and how you’d like to be remembered. Preplanning allows you to make decisions about your memorial service, which can be an incredibly empowering and comforting choice.
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Take the example of Jim Henson, the legendary creator of the Muppets. Henson was deeply involved in planning his own funeral and was specific about his desires. He requested no one wear black, and he asked for readings from Buddhist and Hindu texts. Perhaps his most iconic request was for a Dixieland band to perform and for Big Bird to sing “It’s Not Easy Being Green.” While you may not want Muppets at your service, it shows how personal and meaningful these decisions can be.
Related: 5 Funeral Alternatives: Honoring Loved Ones Your Way
Personal Touches to Consider
Whether you want something grand or something more low-key, your memorial service can reflect your personality and preferences. You might have a favorite hymn, poem or scripture you’d like shared by a close friend or loved one. Music that has a special place in your heart could provide comfort, or you may want to display meaningful photographs. Flowers that bring you joy or hold a sentimental meaning could also be a simple yet beautiful way to personalize the occasion.
On the other hand, you may prefer a private, intimate gathering. Or you might want to prioritize a burial with minimal environmental impact. Letting your loved ones know about this choice in advance can ensure they honor your wishes and keep the day meaningful, just as you intended.
Starting the Conversation: A Gift to Your Loved Ones
Discussing end-of-life plans may feel daunting, but it offers an important opportunity for family members to express their feelings and concerns. It’s also a chance for you to outline how you envision your end-of-life care, providing peace of mind that your wishes will be respected. Initiating the conversation now can help alleviate stress in the future, allowing your loved ones to focus on celebrating your life rather than managing tough decisions.
Prepayment Options: Lifting the Financial Burden
While making decisions about your memorial service is key, it’s also wise to think about how to manage the financial side of things. Prepaying for funeral expenses can significantly ease the burden on your family. There are a few options to explore:
- Life insurance: Whether through a traditional life insurance policy or a specific final expense plan, a death benefit can help cover the cost of funeral services.
- Funeral home financing: Some funeral homes offer payment plans that allow you to settle costs in advance.
- Veteran benefits: If you’re a veteran, you may be eligible for burial in a national cemetery, which can provide certain benefits and reduce costs.
The beauty of preplanning is that it doesn’t have to be done all at once. You can take your time to consider different options, and if your plans change, it’s always possible to adjust them. The most important thing is that you have opened the conversation and made decisions that will bring comfort to your loved ones.
Related: What’s the REAL Cost of a Funeral?
The Peace of Mind You Deserve
Knowing that your wishes are understood and that your family is relieved of making tough decisions during an emotional time is a gift to everyone involved. It’s a way to feel empowered and to ensure that your legacy is celebrated just as you envision. By taking the time now, you’ll bring peace of mind to both yourself and those you leave behind.
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