northernlaurie

Does the religious or spiritual needs of families impact design and if so, how do you balance different traditions in a public facility?

Do you design experiences that feel like rituals or ceremonies even if they aren’t called that?

Finally, a book recommendation for something you found useful or inspiring (doesn’t have to be directly related to your profession).

Do you have any recommendations regarding when to hold memorials or funerals?

Gathering together to mourn is a really important healing experience, in my opinion. But there are limitations on group size and travel. What guidance would you suggest to bereaved family and friends on when to hold memorials/celebrations of life/funerals? (Assuming they are non religious and don’t have prescribed mourning rituals).

I am an officiant for memorials and celebrations of life, and have had a few inquiries. I generally am open to working with people to meet their needs within the limits of law, including virtual memorials. But some people are really lost and need guidance. Some suggestions of questions to ask would be welcome.

I’ve started doing memorials as an officiant, helping people plan services. The people I work with often don’t have religious affiliations and it is common to want a “celebration “ of life. I have to dance gently to make sure there is also space to grieve, that there is room to blend joy and grief together.

The most beautiful service I was ever a part of had music and dance: the service was long and the widow could not t sit comfortably, so she lead her dance friends in impromptu, slow and gentle dancing in the aisles to a very meaningful piece of music. It was an incredible moment. Then they had time in the service for guests to come forward and place a stone in front of a photo of the deceased. Everyone had this chance to make a symbolic goodbye, something that has been lost in many memorials

The whole experience made me very aware of how important and beautiful physical gestures are as part of the grieving process. Giving people a symbolic action to perform gives a certain amount of freedom, and guidance in a situation that most people don’t quite know how to behave.

We also have medical assistance in dying and I am very curious about how ceremony can be a meaningful contribution to that experience as well.

I’m starting architecture school come September and I am curious about integrating what I am learning as a chaplain into an architectural practice.

How about a woman in engineering that started by studying fine art?

Hi Doc

I’m a 42 year old woman without a regular primary care physician and an uncomfortable relationship with my own body that leads into a complete inability to be articulate with doctors.

I’ve been seeing a Gyn because of excessive menstruation and we finally agreed that Mirena would be the best solution. It isn’t working as well as I had hoped for the bleeding part, and I am experiencing other symptoms that may or may not be related.

I will go see a family doctor. Soon. I promise.

But could you give me practical hints or tips on how to prepare for the visit. Like what should I be writing down, what observations are useful, is a menstrual diary helpful? What information or questions would you ask? Or is there a resource I could go to?