Funerals can be fun (March 2011)
Grandpa, at the family compound where I have my house, died very suddenly 3 weeks ago, so I had a privileged place to participate in a Buddhist funeral, which lasted eight days and nights of prayers and parties to accompany Grandpa to his next life.
About 200 people turned up, not all at one time, paying respects, some sleeping in the house on mats around the coffin so that he would not be left alone; outside, drinking, eating and playing cards all night and day, under my bedroom window!
The family and I are sure that Grandpa is very happy in his next life, and drank many beers with us at his funeral!
About 200 people turned up, not all at one time, paying respects, some sleeping in the house on mats around the coffin so that he would not be left alone; outside, drinking, eating and playing cards all night and day, under my bedroom window!
The family and I are sure that Grandpa is very happy in his next life, and drank many beers with us at his funeral!
Me with Grand Ma in the house with Grand Pa and family.
He's surrounded by flowers, incense, candles, his clothes, belongings and money in case he needs something on his last journey. Someone from the family stays with him 24/24 and Monks pray to guide him.
Rebuilding the funeral structure on the coffin on the truck
Rebuilding the funeral structure on the coffin on the truck (above) then again on arriving at the Temple on the cremation alter
Daughters, sons, grand children and friends paying their last respects, & family photos
His spirit is on the way to Paradise
The party continues at home for another 4 days and nights
