Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Drive By Viewing


I did a double take when I spotted this sign the other day.  Yes sir, right here in Farmville you can have a “quickie” and get on with your business.  I mean, really? 

 
What with all the stepped up, fast pace our lives have spun into, I suppose it stands to reason that paying our respects to the dear departed needs to get with the program.  I figure it was laid out (no pun intended) to happen. 

Now I admit, I don’t know a whole lot about the “viewing” custom.  It’s never been a tradition I’ve embraced.  My way of thinking, is that it’s supposed to be a way of saying goodbye, and an opportunity to take one last glimpse - so you won’t forget.   Mind you, a casket propped up in an eight by ten foot display window takes a bit of getting used to.  Takes away a bit of reverence, I’m thinking.

Then there’s the dilemma posed to the funeral home attendant….who gets to be front and center?  How does one know they’re getting the right viewing?  Maybe the driver pulls up and talks into a little speaker…ordering up his next of kin.  

 It’s all a mystery and just too much for me to take in.  Just give me an old fashion send off.  Bring some fried chicken and a chocolate cake by the house, and raise a joyful song in the chapel.  No drive by viewing for me please.

 

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