|
 Buying
your own burial plot can be a “traumatic experience” or it
can be a sensible business transaction that accepts your
rightful responsibility. Vivian and I tried to make it the
latter, and we must have succeeded for I noticed the cemetery
agent raised his brow when I offered to trade in a few items on
the deal. No harm done.
One
must be prepared to face a lot of “loved ones” talk, the
advantages of “perpetual care,” and free coffee for those
who come to visit. If you take the deal on double markers you
may choose epitaphs like “Together Forever” or “Eternal
Rest.” We liked the plain ones. There is also a nice pitch for
air-sealed caskets, and vaults that keep the grave from sinking
in. Many of these “advantages” had nothing to compare with
that of spending the money for living expenses, and doing what
good we can — now!
Vivian
would have preferred lots closer to town. She says when she is
98 it will be such a chore to come and visit me. Strange, but I
always thought I would be visiting her. The truth is, none of us
will allow ourselves to consider factually and sensibly the
certainty of our death. It only happens to other nice people.
|
|
Death
is not a laughing matter, neither should it be a morbid or
horrifying thought. When we are done with our tabernacle it must
return to mother earth, one way or another. A Texas hillside,
canopied with blue skies and sheltered by Spanish oaks, seems
like as good a place as any. We drove home with a feeling of
relief, and the satisfaction of knowing that such decisions
would not have to be made by “loved ones” under the
emotional stress of that inevitable day.
And.
deep inside I think we both felt a bit more mature, a bit more
at peace with ourselves, for having accepted this reality. The
power of eternal life over death has been effectually
demonstrated in Jesus, who “led captivity captive.” We are
secure in our faith, our trust in Him.
“But
I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning thee
which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have
no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even
so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with.. him.”
(1 Thes .4:13-f.) No, mister, we are not buying a “permanent
resting place.” We just want a cot, where we can take a nap.
[Previous
Article] [Next
Article]
|
