Diversity in Death: Lessons Learned from A Giant, 2 Families, and a Hare Krishna

Diversity is a constant in life. It teaches us how to be flexible under stress, to appreciate ourselves and each other. Diversity tells us that it’s OK to be curious and ask questions, to live and let live. Diversity isn’t always drastic. Subtle diversity can yield the greatest experiences. But is there diversity in death?  Absolutely!

I have served almost every kind of family you can think of in my 9 short years as a mortician. Families of strong faith and atheists, wealthy families and poor ones, families that can populate a small city and individuals who are the last ones left, families who are cultured and those who prefer simplicity. But what have I learned in the time I have spent with them? That judging people based on differences and unfamiliarity can rob you of the opportunity to learn about and bring amazing people into your life.

Here are a few lessons I’ll never forget:

•        The 16-Year-Old Giant – From the minute we met, his father was on the defense. His 16-year-old-son had died of complications due to hereditary Gigantism and he was distraught. I tried my hardest to soften him up but couldn’t do it nor, could I do anything right.  Finally, he blew up and told me there was no way I could understand what losing a child was like. I said gently, “You’re right. Your grief is your own. But I do know what I felt like when I lost mine.” His face dropped- his expression was a mix of embarrassment, pain and confusion. He burst into tears. He hugged me with every bit of his heart. He apologized over & over, asking for forgiveness. I looked up and smiled, telling him no apology was needed. His son’s services were perfect and I made a new friend.  He taught me to help others by being vulnerable.

•        2 In 2 Days –  2 young men, 2 different families, both in their early 20s, died tragically. The first family planned for a big personalized service. The next day, the second family wanted a simple cremation only. Two families in similar situations and yet so far apart in their style of grieving. How was I going to balance this? I threw myself into each family, learning everything I could about them and their sons. I nurtured each one in their own ways and gave them what they needed. From them I learned not to assume that everyone wants the same thing.

Photo Source: womennewsnetwork.net

Photo Source: womennewsnetwork.net

 

•        The Hare Krishna – I know very little about Hare Krishnas.  But this family truly impacted me. Their grandmother was chanted into a trance in which she died in perfect peace. Smiling. It was beautiful to hear her story. They ceremoniously dressed her in the most gorgeous sari, jewelry & face paint. They sprinkled her with precious oils, herbs & flowers.  They chanted, sang and prayed all the way thru her dressing and cremation, always making sure to involve me. The peace, love & pure joy was so far from the usual death experience, it was like nothing I’ve seen before. They taught me to allow mystery to draw me in & not be afraid.

I have learned to be seen as the diversity. I’m a mortician, initially seen as mysterious, weird or scary. But after a few moments of visiting, most people walk away with a whole new understanding of who I am, what I do & how much of a difference I can make for the families who need me.

  • Have you ever had a “diversity in death” experience?

  • What was it like & what did you take away from it?

Molly Keating
Molly Keating
Hello! I'm Molly and I run & manage the Blog here at O'Connor. I grew up in a mortuary with a mortician for a father who's deep respect for the profession inspired me to give working at a mortuary a try. Work at O'Connor has brought together two of my deep passions, writing & grief awareness. In 2016 I earned Certification in the field of Thanatology, the study of Death, Dying and Bereavement. I am honored to be able to speak on these taboo topics with knowledge, compassion, and a unique perspective. I want to sincerely thank you for following & reading the blog, I hope that this is a healing place for you.

14 Comments

  1. Becky Finch Lomaka says:

    Carrie, I love the fact that through serving families during their darkest hours, you are able to take away “lessons learned” and apply them to your own life. I so admire the work you do and and I am glad to have had the privilege to learn from you as you have cared for and comforted families. I think you are pretty amazing!

  2. Neil says:

    Carrie –
    I love this blog post, this is a great perceptive on life & death.
    During the last 25 years of serving our community I have had the privilege of serving many different cultures, ethnic & religious groups. The most recent profound family I served was a local native American Catholic family. The family planned many different ceremonies that gave their community & family the opportunity to be involved. So many people in our community embraced being involved, it was beautiful to see.

  3. Fitz says:

    Carrie,
    What an awesome blog! You truly have a gift to connect with the diverse group of families we serve each year. Thank you for being open and honest and sharing your experiences.
    Fitz

  4. Lori Bristol says:

    Carrie,
    I have the privilege to not only call you friend, but to watch you immerse yourself emotionally into the families you serve. You pour your heart into your work and give your all to each family. Comforting people is why I believe we are called to this industry. You have been a wonderful teacher and friend to me as I have begun my journey in the funeral business. Thank you for sharing your experiences. MWAH!!!

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