Losing a loved one is a distressing experience, and planning a funeral might only add to your upset. Yet, your goal will likely be to provide your relative, partner, or friend with the goodbye they deserve. If their wishes are unknown, you might need to make important decisions to create the correct service.
For this reason, you might feel torn between traditional burial or the more popular cremation. Each option has pros and cons you would be wise to consider. If you are leaning toward the latter, learn about the five benefits of cremation over burial.
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A More Affordable Option
$11,000 is the average cost for a funeral in the United States, as you will need to pay for a variety of services, such as:
- A doctor’s certificate
- Funeral transportation
- Floral arrangements
- A headstone
- A casket
- A burial plot
Yet, a cremation can help you avoid some of the above fees, which could help you shave thousands of dollars off the cost of a funeral.
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A Flexible Goodbye
If you choose a burial, you will need to purchase a plot or a mausoleum. However, if you select a cremation service, you will have more flexibility when scattering a loved one’s ashes.
For instance, you could scatter a loved one’s ashes in their favorite location, place a small amount in memorial jewelry, or store them in the home in one of the unique Commemorative Cremation urns. If you choose an urn, you can pick a meaningful design that will serve as a beautiful tribute to your much-loved family member or friend.
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A Simple Service
If you select a traditional burial, various additional funeral components will be expected throughout the service, such as a wake, pallbearers, a mass service at a church, and more. Choosing a cremation will allow you to plan a simple service, such as a memorial or a celebration of life. There are often fewer rituals to follow, and you can celebrate your loved one’s life in an uncomplicated way.
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An Environmentally Friendly Option
If your loved one had an environmentally conscious mindset, they might prefer cremation over burial, as it is a kinder option for planet Earth. If you host a wake before a burial, harsh chemicals will likely be used during the embalming process, and the toxins can cause water and soil pollution. Also, a burial plot will fill up land space while disturbing the Earth.
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Compatible with Many Faiths
Many belief systems permit funeral cremations, such as:
- Catholicism
- Buddhism
- Hinduism
- Christianity
Of course, some religions are against cremations, and you must consider a loved one’s faith before choosing between a cremation or burial. For example, it is a wise option to pick a burial if a loved one is of Jewish, Islamic, or Mormon faith.
If you want to save money and simplify a funeral service, cremation might be the best option for your loved one. Of course, always take the deceased’s wishes and faith into account.
