While cremation has become a popular alternative to a traditional burial, it’s easy to have some hesitation about whether that would be the right option for you when the time of your passing finally comes. Even when the thought feels like it’s decades away, it’s always important to have a plan for what is one of the most personal decisions we’ll make throughout our lives.
The decision should ultimately come down to each person’s thoughts, feelings, and their personal beliefs. As this is something you start to consider, and possibly bring up to friends and family, here are some of the pros and cons of cremation.
The Cost
Before making any important life decision, it is always crucial to seek out the costs associated with the idea you are considering. Looking at the average cost of cremation, it is typically much more affordable than the traditional burial process. Having a burial plot, a casket, and the embalming process can all add up to tens of thousands of dollars or more. As you can imagine, there is much less involved in the process of cremation, bringing the cost down.
If you and your family are struggling financially, there will be relief in knowing that cremation starts at around a few thousand dollars. Like a traditional burial, the cost can still fluctuate. In the case of cremation, decisions on things like the cost and size of an urn can quickly impact the final total.
Emotional Challenges
Some of those close to you may struggle with the idea that your physical remains will no longer exist, in a certain traditional sense. While your ashes will remain, it is much different than the traditional funeral experience with a viewing of an open or closed casket. Without a casket in general, your passing may even feel less real or tangible because there will not be a physical grave site for them to visit.
On the other hand, the idea of cremation may also result in additional comfort for other loved ones. Being cremated can give them the chance to spread some of your ashes at the places that meant the most throughout your shared lives. There is also the option for them to keep some, or all, of your ashes with them in an urn so you will always be with them going forward.
Religious and Cultural Objections
Depending on your background and beliefs, the thought of cremation may be nothing to worry about or it could be something you have your doubts about. Even if there is no personal objection to the process, multiple people in your family or a partner with different beliefs may view your body as being destroyed.
As an example, there are certain Christian denominations who strongly discourage the process of cremation and other denominations and religions will see no issue with the idea of you not having a traditional burial. Ultimately, the final decision is up to you but it is understandable that having loved ones in your life who oppose something might be enough reason for you to have second thoughts.
