The Longest Rest
We walked silently through the cemetery, occasionally stopping to read the inscribed words.
Some simple; who they were, followed by a date of birth and year of their death, the only other details.
Others, with little messages from those they’d left behind, those who loved them well.
As we wandered, we found ourselves amongst those long departed, dishevelled and neglected; these were the gravesites holding the most intrigue to us.
We pondered what might have happened 100 years ago for so many from the same family? Soon realising it was either The Great War or the Spanish flu.
A twinge of sadness as our imagination took us travelling to a time, not of our knowing. What was it like during that time? Were they emotionally distraught or stoic in their loss? Perhaps the latter. When accepting life’s struggles, which no doubt there were many, and just getting on with things was all they could do.
We left quietly, reflecting on those who’d gone before us. After a while, we began to share our thoughts. It seemed like a lonely place to leave a loved one, even if the view of the Pacific Ocean was spectacular.
Of course, it may have seemed lonely to us on that particular day, but for others, a cemetery can be a place of fascination and inspiration — of great historical value.
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On that day, perched atop the Bronte Head situated along the coast of the eastern suburbs of New South Wales, we found the resting place of many famous Australians, including the writer Henry Lawson and Dorothea MacKellar, the Australian poet. Dorothea famously wrote the widely known poem My Country.
In this cemetery, the famous, alongside the infamous, all with a story to tell. A family crypt might be their final resting place; for others, a family plot awaits.
Choosing to do things your way.
In 2021, it’s conceivable to do things differently. Your final resting place may be entirely novel. If the thought of a cemetery seems a little lonely, then you do have options.
Yes, you can choose to have things done your way even though you’re gone.
Perhaps you still like the idea of a traditional burial but with a unique funeral service or no service at all, with just a few words as your ashes are scattered into the breeze?
Sometimes what’s important during your life can be just as important in death. If you chose to live sustainably, you might want to consider the planet and opt for an eco burial. The idea of returning to the earth naturally where a tree may grow above you may feel like the perfect long rest.
Few of us want to ponder our demise. However, by making a record of how you’d like your friends and family to bid you farewell or where you’d like your final resting place to be, you’re helping those who’d like to respect your wishes after you’re gone.
Writing down and storing your end of life wishes in a secure place, like the soon to be released Australian online platform Wishkeeper, could be a lovely parting gift and a way for your loved ones to uphold your wishes while honouring your life.
