Let's Talk: Cremation or Burial
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Death is a sensitive topic that can be hard to talk about. We're here to help answer the tough questions, such as how do you want to have your life celebrated: cremation, burial, or going out on a Viking ship?
Video Transcipt
Let's Talk: Cremation or Burial
Val is in conversation with woman in her early thirties.
Val: You alright? Anything on your mind?
Woman: Yeah, my dad's going in for an operation. He says it's pretty routine but then he also said if anything happens he wants to be cremated.
Val: I'm sure he'll be fine.
Woman: Yeah-I'm not super worried -- it just got me thinking... is cremation really the best choice? I mean, knowing Dad he probably just picked the cheapest option.
Val: Well, actually, cremation can be less expensive but there's a lot more to it than people think...
Woman: Like what? I mean, you don't need a coffin.
Val: Actually a casket or suitable container is required.
Woman: Oh… what else?
Val: Well there's the service.
Woman: There’s still a service with cremation?
Val: Absolutely. And you need to decide what to do with the remains.
Woman: Remains?
Val: You know, the ashes.
Woman: Yeah. Don't you just scatter them? I mean, my Dad really likes the cottage so maybe we could just scatter them there.
Val: Ah, but what happens if your family ever sells the cottage?
Woman: Good point.
Val: So most families like to have some place they can go visit; like a family plot or an above ground niche. You could always scatter some of the ashes at the cottage though.
Woman: So what's better-cremation or burial?
Val: Apples and oranges. It’s really a personal preference.
Woman: I know what I'd like.
Val: What…?
Woman: To go out like a Viking. On a burning raft floating out to sea.
Val: For that, I think you’ll need a special permit.
Woman: Vikings don’t need permits.