Written by Director, Gareth Coles:
It’s been a really busy few months for Coles Funeral Directors, and we’re always deeply conscious that this means widespread sadness and grief for the many families we work with here in Cardiff. For some, death hits the family without any warning, whilst for others it comes as a release after months or years of their loved ones’ suffering.It sparks the question whether it’s better to know the end is in sight and be able to say goodbye – or not know and potentially leave things unsaid. Ultimately, the choice is rarely ours.
What we do have a choice about is whether or not to talk about death. There is a growing movement towards openly discussing the reality of both our own death, and the death of others. In my experience, people that are faced with the imminence of their own death are usually more receptive to talking about it, but their loved ones often find it difficult to engage comfortably in the conversation.
If you’re facing the death of a loved one, it might be very difficult, but open and honest conversation may be something they’re craving. Purely from a practical perspective, they might be keen to share with you their end-of-life wishes and/or funeral preferences. Do you know where your loved one would prefer to die? If they’ve opted in to (or out of) Organ Donation? Whether they wish to be buried or cremated – and which sort of service they’d prefer?
If you’re at the other end of this scale and you actively engage in conversation about death in your family – perhaps you’d like to take it a step further and pre-arrange your funeral?
Wherever you are in your readiness to discuss ‘the end’, our mission at Coles Funeral Directors – and my personal mission – is to help to demystify the whole process, believing that as a result of this we as a community here in Cardiff will be able to prepare for death and the grief that follows. I think that this will help us all to lead the life we want to live, appreciate the people we love, and find enjoyment and peace in all the little things that make our time here precious.
What do you think? Are you curious about death and dying? Would you like some advice on how to broach the subject with your friends and family? You can contact me anytime with a question and if it falls within my field of expertise I’ll get back to you with an answer – or point you in the direction of someone who can help.