dep-ART-ures

dep-ART-ures. Within the word there is "ART."

There is an ART to dying.

If given the choice when it's imminent, we can accept our death, or resist it. Die with quiet dignity or fight with fear.

Most people don't have a choice of how they will die. And,
for many, their minds diminish and their personality dies before their body does.

In an ideal situation, we can plan our departure: plots or urns are purchased, funerals are planned, health care proxies are in order, loved ones are bequeathed precious items ... a sense of closure is achieved. It can be important to leave treasured objects to certain recipients. After we are gone, that ring - that painting - that book - whatever object was left will evoke memories of the loved one for those who remain on this plane.

ART objects are used in most cultures to honor the departed. Shrines are common worldwide, constructed as a tribute to something or someone. From the wooden cross and flowers left at an accident scene, to the gravestone, to the beautiful shadow box monuments in cemeteries, to a shrine in a sacred place at home ... people honor their lost one with objects that represent their time on earth. Building a shrine for someone else, or for yourself, is part of the process of the acceptance of death, making a tribute, honoring the departed, and healing the living.

Dep-ART-ures is about creating ART that leads to acceptance of death, and to healing.