As I look back over these stories, I’m amused, disturbed, and delighted by the range of human behavior surrounding the subject of death. I’m grateful that we have people willing to help us with the rituals of life’s termination, but saddened by those who feel that their own self-enrichment or gratification is worth more than another person’s dignity. As I walk through a cemetery now, I understand the differences among the types of stones and monuments, and I can appreciate the many stories there are yet to be recorded. Although I traveled far and wide and talked to many people, I feel as if I’ve only scratched the surface. However, I know so much more about death now, from the serene aspects to the sinister, and about how people hope to be treated and remembered.
The obvious question now is, what shall be my own final disposition? Will I do pre-need? Will I decide to be buried? Will I have an elaborate epitaph?
In thinking it through, I find that I agree with the final words of Ethan Allan, who died in 1789. Upon being told that the angels in heaven were waiting for him, he said, “Waiting, are they? Well, let ’em wait!”