You write “Maybe this process is bizarre and uncomfortable. It could be worse.” Oh, hell yes it could be worse! At least you now have awareness of various financial elements and a notion of where to physically find stuff (like receipt of prepayment for her cremation). Plus, you don’t have to figure out if she would want to be buried or cremated at the exact moment you are struggling with complicated grief. Truly, whether it feels like one or not, this process is a gift from your mom. My own mom spent her last dying days planning her funeral - the songs and the readings - and it made her very happy. Two fewer things we had to figure out.
It's true, it IS a gift. I think my brother and I are both (mostly) grateful that we're closing some of the gaps now. And mom knows that. Knowing there's a plan does make her happy. It's funny--my dad was also proud, and relieved, to share his death wishes.
Haha, well, "done" is a strong word in this context. But yes, some progress is happening, and that's encouraging! Thank you for the kind comment, Randal!!
You write “Maybe this process is bizarre and uncomfortable. It could be worse.” Oh, hell yes it could be worse! At least you now have awareness of various financial elements and a notion of where to physically find stuff (like receipt of prepayment for her cremation). Plus, you don’t have to figure out if she would want to be buried or cremated at the exact moment you are struggling with complicated grief. Truly, whether it feels like one or not, this process is a gift from your mom. My own mom spent her last dying days planning her funeral - the songs and the readings - and it made her very happy. Two fewer things we had to figure out.
It's true, it IS a gift. I think my brother and I are both (mostly) grateful that we're closing some of the gaps now. And mom knows that. Knowing there's a plan does make her happy. It's funny--my dad was also proud, and relieved, to share his death wishes.
How poignantly written and melifluously read! And I’m very glad for your family that the planning is done.
Haha, well, "done" is a strong word in this context. But yes, some progress is happening, and that's encouraging! Thank you for the kind comment, Randal!!