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The whole process of planning a funeral is difficult and painful. You’re trying to juggle logistics and schedules, while also newly processing your loss and feelings of grief. Everyone grieves differently, and there’s no right or wrong way to do so. There are some things that can help most people get through some of the beginning stages, especially when it comes to actually acknowledging and processing your loss. Your funeral home near Midlothian, VA, can help give you and your family the opportunity to say a final goodbye to your loved one. With this step, you all can begin to learn how to move forward in a life without that person.
One of the most common ways for people to say a final goodbye is with a viewing, which usually takes place prior to a traditional funeral. It’s normally the day before the funeral, although sometimes it can take place earlier in the same day. It’s generally a period of several hours where the immediate family stays the whole time, greeting visitors and accepting condolences for their loss. The person who has passed is laid out in their casket at the front of the room, with the casket open. Those attending can walk up and look at their friend or loved one, perhaps touch their hand, say a prayer, or simply spend a silent moment with them. It’s not easy to see someone we knew and loved in that position, but it’s a big part of understanding that they are really gone. It can be easy to go through a normal day, expecting them to be there when you need them, only to remember that they’re not. Having that final glimpse can allow your mind to learn and accept that they are gone.
If your loved one wanted to be cremated, and chose not to have a traditional viewing and funeral, there are other ways to have that moment of a final goodbye. Even if you have gone with direct cremation as their method of disposition, you can still opt to have an hour or two prior to cremation to spend with their remains. You and a small number of close family members may spend that time with your loved one, giving each other support, and saying your goodbyes. Then, they will move on to the cremation process.
Experiencing that moment of seeing your loved one the last time before they are buried or cremated is emotional and heartbreaking. Saying goodbye is the last thing a person wants to do to someone that they care about. However, allowing yourself that chance will eventually make the days to come a little bit easier to cope with. Your funeral home near Midlothian, VA, is there to help you every step of the way throughout this difficult process. They will help you make sure that you and your family and friends will have the chance to say goodbye to the person you’ve lost. That way, you can begin the journey of adjusting to life without them, the best way that you can.
