Tag Archives: Life Celebrations

A Glimpse into Contemporary Iranian Passing

Remembrance events in modern Iranian culture

As an Iranian-American, I spent the first five years of my life in Tehran before moving permanently to the US. I have experienced both the traditional Islamic Iranian funeral in Iran and the contemporary ceremony in America. Despite the fact … Continue reading

Posted in Cultural Perspectives | Tagged , , , , , , , | 9 Comments

What to Do When Someone Dies

Ten Tips Above and Beyond Typical Funeral Arrangements

Everyday at SevenPonds we are working hard to research and expand our content to arm our readers with more information, guidance and choices on what to do when someone dies. Our daily deep dive allows a wide knowledge base of … Continue reading

Posted in Sharing Suzette | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

What is sea burial? An Interview with Anya and Ken Shortridge

SevenPonds explores ocean burial with "Ashes on the Sea"

“Ashes on the Sea,” a small company run by Ken and Anya Shortridge, has been providing beautiful, personalized ocean burial services to the San Diego area since 1997.  Anya and Ken agreed to speak with SevenPonds about what their practice has … Continue reading

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In Remembrance

by Rev. Arnold Crompton

This poem is one of celebrant Irene Kane‘s favorite pieces to incorporate into the memorial services she leads; it both speaks to a universal sentiment, and readily lends itself to personalized adaptation.  It reminds me of Suzette’s grandmother’s final words … Continue reading

Posted in A Rite of Passage | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Dying is Not Always a Sad Process

My grandmother's glorious last hurrah

We think of dying as something sad — a path paved only with despair. But my grandmother Ida taught me otherwise. One day, at age 81, she awoke with difficulty swallowing. My mother took her to the doctor, who fed a … Continue reading

Posted in Sharing Suzette | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

What is a Celebrant? An Interview with Irene Kane

A professional "celebrant" names the key ingredients for a successful memorial

“Celebrants” are nondenominational professionals who help meet the ceremonial and spiritual needs of families, most commonly called upon for weddings and memorials.  As a highly respected celebrant, Irene Kane creates personalized and memorable ceremonies throughout California. Below, Irene shares her … Continue reading

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