Cremation has always been an option over a traditional burial. But with over 50 percent of Americans being cremated each year, it’s safe to say it’s more popular than ever.
Continue reading to learn a few of the benefits of cremation:
- Lower cost: The average funeral cost is $11,000, which can put a major financial strain on families that are already going through a hard time. Depending on the type of cremation you choose, the cost can be about half of a full funeral and burial service.
- Time efficient: Not only is a funeral expensive, but planning one can be a very time-consuming process. And the process of planning a funeral is even more difficult when a family is grieving. Opt for a cremation to take that pressure off your family.
- Eco friendly: The chemicals involved in the embalming process, paired with the fact that most caskets aren’t made of sustainable materials, take a significant toll on the environment. You can do your part to preserve Mother Nature after you pass by being cremated.
- Saves space: It goes without saying that being buried in a cemetery takes up quite a bit of space. In addition to reducing your carbon footprint, you can help save space by opting for cremation.
- Ashes are portable: Another one of the benefits of cremation is that the ashes are portable once they’re placed in an urn. This might not mean a lot for the deceased, but going back to visit a cemetery plot might not be feasible if a family moves. If you’re cremated, your body will always be with your family.
- Ashes can be shared: Your family might live all over the country or even the world, which makes visiting a cemetery plot even more difficult. After you’re cremated, your family can divide up your ashes so that they can all honor your memory without traveling to a single destination.
- Compatible with many faiths: It’s a common misconception that cremation is sacrilegious—that’s actually not the case with many major religions. While it’s forbidden in Islam, it’s allowed in many Christian churches and in some circumstances in Judaism. Cremation is actually mandated in Hinduism and preferred for Buddhists.
- You can still hold a service: Just because you opt for cremation doesn’t mean your family can’t hold a funeral service. In fact, a cremation service is more convenient than a traditional burial service because it can be held many months later.
- Allows for creative ceremonies: A cremation service can also be much more creative than a traditional burial service. Ashes can be scattered pretty much anywhere or even made into art or jewelry. Be sure to talk to your family about where you’d like your ashes to be spread or if you’d like them in an urn.
The best cremation products
For the highest-quality cremation urns, be sure to come to Steedley Monument Works. All of our urns are crafted with the best materials to ensure your memory is preserved long after your passing. Give us a call today to shop our products or to learn about our custom etching services.