Having The Dreaded Death Talk

The birds and bees talk is always fun, ain’t it?

Oh, behave!

But, that’s not the talk we’re discussing today (DANG IT!).

The one I’m offering, is the talk about dying, and what your wishes might be upon your death, you know, if you go first…or second…or last, even.

Having the death talk is important, y’all.

 

Being diagnosed with cancer makes a person think about such things.

You’re mortality is front and center and you can’t help but think of death and what that may mean for those you love.

Do You Have A Death Wish?

(said every mother ever to her boys)

My answer to that uncomfortable question is, yes.

I have long told Garry that if I die first, I prefer a large private indoor mausoleum (10 Rules Upon my Death), where folks can feel free to release their grief in gnashing of teeth, screeching like a banshee, tearing of cloth and thrashing about on the ground, safely insulated from inclement weather.

Aren’t I thoughtful?

After all the kidding, I have also told Garry many specifics of my wishes, but then I always end with: you’re the one left, so do whatever makes you happiest in your unspeakable time of grief (ever sensitive, I am).

The reality is I’m gone. Why would I want to make my loved ones lives harder, during an insanely difficult time?

Have y’all thought about your wishes upon your death? 

If not, I’d suggest you take a bit of time and make a list.

I know, it’s an uncomfortable topic, one that many put off. 

Don’t be one of the many; be brave and meet this comfortableness head-on.

Your loved ones will thank you.

Tough Topic Starters:

1: Do you like the idea of cremation, then being scattered during a road trip throughout the U.S.?

2: Do you want to be buried in a particular spot?

In your favorite cemetery, under a peaceful tree where your loved ones can sit and picnic on Dia De Los Muertos, or possibly in the backyard, ala Elvis? (I think you need a special permit for that).

3: Do you want to be buried in a ball gown, in a track suit, in a military uniform (it helps if you were actually in the military for that one)?

4: Do you like the idea of a viewing? Or would you rather just go from death to dirt?

[Tweet “Do You Have A Death Wish?!”]

See? 

Lots of questions that need to be pondered, then answered, or you risk being sent off in a Viking’s longboat, set ablaze by a well-aimed flaming arrow as you are pushed out to sea. (Boy has requested this one) (addendum: I think this type of funeral is a myth, created and perpetuated by Hollywood. Still…fun!)

You’ve Talked About Your Death Wishes; You’ve Decided. Now What?

If you have thought about your wishes and you’d like them carried out, I highly suggest making note of them and placing said wishes in a secure location for whomever will need direction upon your demise.

Garry and I had many honest discussions about death during my cancer treatment and I have very specific wishes, made clearer by my cancer diagnosis. 

He’s not too thrilled with my idea of no funeral except for a very small gathering of family, nor is he fond of throwing a fun-time party/wake in place of the nonexistent public funeral. (How can I celebrate your life? I’ll be too sad. As it should be, baby.)

Honestly, it matters little for me what he does, other than no embalming, because, ewww; I simply want his heart to be eased if I go first, so whatever makes him happy is what will happen.

Yet, having written plans, helps. I know this because I once knew a man who had done just this for those he left behind, and it made the hardness of his loss easier.

If the death talk is something you haven’t had with your near and dear, I highly recommend it.

It will save them added anguish of guessing-based decision making, knowing what you want and how you want it, at a time when their grieve will seem insurmountable.

Links For Important Stuff To Consider:

CAVEAT: I am not an attorney and am not giving legal advice. These links can help jump start your research into such matters.

Living Will (this is for Texas…check with your state for the correct form)

Medical Power of Attorney

Wills

Do you have anything to add? Something you found useful?

Tell us in the comments.

Original Post: September 30, 2015 ~ Updated Post: February 23, 2020

 

 

 

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