Adapted extract from a letter sent to The Natural Death Centre.
The most recent funeral I attended was described by many as very 'beautiful' for a range of reasons. Firstly, it was very personalised with friends sharing all responsibilities and giving support. They sat in concentric circles, played music, sang or recounted past events, with mourners moving between laughter and tears. Children moved freely about the room and placed flowers on the body. It was carried to the grave by friends and everyone helped fill it, using hands and spades. There was no pressure to make way for the next funeral and with the weather being warm, musical instruments were played as everyone sat around the filled grave.
John Bradfield, 7 Knox Road, Harrogate, N. Yorks HG1 3EF (tel 01423 530900).