What has changed in the way we say goodbye? Cremation is now on par with traditional burials, the once gold standard. This has really taken off. Comparing streaming to vinyl is like comparing the two - they both have their charms, but one of them fits better with modern times. You can get the best guide on usa cremation.
Now let's get into the numbers. In the past, cremation almost became an afterthought. Now? It is almost mainstream. Recent stats indicate that nearly half of Americans now choose to use this approach. Why is there such a dramatic shift in attitudes? Many reasons are at play.
Let's admit it. Space has become an expensive commodity. It's only a matter of time before cemeteries start to resemble a crowded block. By choosing cremation, you can keep your life simple and reduce congestion. Additionally, cremation allows you to be free from a permanent location.
A traditional funeral is a great example of how simple it can be. This can make planning a traditional funeral feel overwhelming. Cremation usually is a more simple and flexible process. The options are limitless: spread ashes out at sea in a container, keep them on urns or mantelpieces (just make sure you don't knock the urn over!) If you want to make them more meaningful, they can even be made into art and jewelry.
I'd like to tell you the story of my aunt Sally. She always liked to explore and she never liked to be confined. She died in 2013, and her children decided to scatter the ashes of her at her favorite hike. This was an entire day of stories, tears, and connection with her spirit. This was not a formal event, but a simple celebration of her life.
A big factor is the cost. It can be expensive to do a traditional burial - sorry, no pun intended! Caskets, graves, and headstones add up more quickly than you think. Cremation is a great way to reduce that burden.
We must not ignore the environment. David Attenborough and other eco-friendly celebrities have made many people aware of the importance of protecting our environment. Burials often include chemicals or materials that don't always benefit Mother Nature. While cremation still has an ecological footprint, how do you compare it to traditional methods? The planet will be happier.
These benefits are not without their drawbacks. What will happen in those last moments, before the cremation occurs? Many people feel comfort knowing that their loved one will be left alone to rest, while others struggle to adjust.
There's also the issue of religion, which has its own role to play. Certain faiths are more open-minded about cremations while other adhere to centuries-old rituals that have been ingrained in their systems.
If we take a look at our world today, it is clear that we value choice & individualization. Especially when we are dealing with something personal & emotionally charged like saying goodbye forever.
It doesn't matter if you choose to create a keepsake out of your ashes or spread them across the mountainside, but it does matter how these memories are passed on.