When someone close to me dies; say a family member or an old friend I would prefer to recieve a phone call or a personal text to my phone. For the first time ever I got an inbox message to my facebook account via my phone.
I read about an old friend suddenly dying. The only response I had was to scream. I kept saying 'No, no, no!'. I cried with shoulders shaking. My 12 year old Kross came in the kitchen, he ran to hold me.
The message was passed on because it was seen by another old friend who read it on facebook. It seems that despite everyone owning a mobile phone we continue to pass on such news through messages with no voice at the other end of the phone.
As a Funeographer and Funeography Journalist I've been able to promote my company (Funeography) and myself well and to keep in touch with other death industry colleagues.
To be able to let everyone know funeral details using facebook is very, very useful, there is no denying that. For families grieving it means not having to call so many people. When you're grieving talking too much can be just as difficult as not talking.
I think it's important to think about respecting the family before posting too much information on what has happened or even how you're feeling. I think the family should have the privilege of giving out the details and expressing their emotions. Perhaps the time to read longer opinions and expressions of grief for the person who has died should come after the funeral.
The best part about facebook is that the family can thank everyone at the same time for their support and kind wishes. It is always comforting for families who are grieving.
Since my mums death 16 years ago, I only have some of the cards from her flowers and sympathy cards. They are equally as precious. I think I love having them just as much because they were physically bought and chosen and it's wonderful to have something to hold, something tangible, solid, like the Funeography Books.
This is the cover of the Funeography Book I did for a dear friend over a year ago who would have recently celebrated her 50th birthday. I miss you lots and think of you often.
This blog is dedicated to Laurie Coom.
