-
New Mushroom Coffins Turn Human Remains Into Nutrients for the Earth
Mycelium burial containers contribute to green burial optionsGreen burials and natural burial products have become more and more popular in recent years. In 2018, 54% of Americans reported that they were considering some kind of green burial, and 72% of cemeteries reported an increased demand for such services. Now, a Dutch startup company has joined the trend, offering a unique option: mushroom…
/
-
The “Nights of Grief & Mystery” 2023 World Tour
A palliative care icon and musician lead viewers into the mysteries of life, love and deathOn Sunday, September 17, Vancouverites in British Columbia, Canada, packed the 355-seat York Theatre for an unusual event: “A Night of Grief and Mystery.” There, Stephen Jenkinson – a culture activist and author – joined musician Gregory Hoskins to explore the darker facets of life and death – including child mortality, climate change and unrealized…
/
-
“Aporia”
This film uses time travel to teach us about the consequences of avoiding feelings“Aporia,” directed by Jared Moshe, presents a fresh take on the time travel genre. It also shows us how grief can affect people in different ways and illuminates the lengths some people will go to avoid feeling the pain of loss. In doing so, it serves as a warning for future generations: Do not try to…
/
-
Oakwood Cemetery in Troy, NY is an Architectural Pioneer
A picturesque landscape that serves as both graveyard and gardenBefore municipal parks dotted the Hudson Valley, Oakwood Cemetery in Troy, New York, was designed to serve as both a place of solitude for the dead and serenity for the living. This National Historic Landmark was built in 1848 as a final resting place for local wealthy dignitaries among its sprawling hills and valleys. But…
/
-
Couple Creates Their Own Natural Burial Vessels in North Carolina
Jack Webb wove his own natural, handmade burial vessel together with his partner, Nancy (and one for their dog, Pal)Conventional caskets made of wood, metal or fiberglass, but opportunities for natural or “green” burials have been growing in popularity in recent years.Jack Webb and his partner Nancy Allen, however, participated in a beautiful experience that takes that concept even further. The couple spent a blissful week together on a sustainable farm near Asheville, North…
/
-
A Sustainable Funeral Director Offers “A Ferrari for Every Funeral” (Interview)
An Interview with Susanne Duijvestein explores the healing power of truly personalized funeralsIn 2017, after 11 years of working in the financial sector, Susanne Duijvestein decided to follow a new path. Susanne is now a funeral director, who specializes in sustainable, non-traditional funerals. Since starting her company, Bij Afscheid, she has helped families all over the Netherlands say goodbye to their loved ones with graceful dignity. Located…
/
-
“Leave a Light On”
Song comforts those suffering from addiction, depression or griefScottish singer-songwriter Tom Walker’s 2017 song, “Leave a Light On,” is a powerful reminder that there are people out there who care. Anyone grappling with grief, addiction, or mental health issues will take comfort in the chorus’s repeated assurance that “I will leave a light on.” Building up to this promise, the pre-chorus offers a…
/
-
The Changing Face of the Funeral Service Industry
As many older morticians retire, they are replaced by a younger, female workforceWhen people think of morticians, an image of an older, doleful man dressed in black, possibly hiding some secrets or scams, might come to mind. But the face of the funeral service industry is rapidly changing, as many older morticians and funeral directors retire. The funeral worker industry is currently facing a shortage, which may…
/
-
“The Seventh Seal” by Ingmar Bergman
A poetic classic film for contemplating death and mortalityI would like to begin this post by saying that I do NOT recommend “The Seventh Seal” to anyone who is grieving, nor those coping with the impending loss/current illness of a loved one. However, if you are philosophically interested in reflecting on your own mortality, or on a spiritual journey to embrace death as…
/
Want an Easier Way to Plan a Memorial Event? Get our FREE guide
“7 Ways to Create an Amazing Celebration of Life”
