Author Archives: Juniper Quin (Blog Writer, SevenPonds)

Ghanian Funeral Fabrics Symbolize Attitude Toward Death

Colorful funeral attire tells story of relationship to ancestors

Ghanian funerals are notable for their festive nature and the fact that they are spread over several days, usually on weekends. Sometimes called “celebrations of life” or “funeral parties,” they usually include official mourning with tears profusely shed, prayers, sometimes … Continue reading

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For-Profit Hospices Discharging Patients Before Their Time

Cost savings take precedence over patient wishes, study shows

According to a recent New York Times article, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission has found that approximately 20 percent of hospice patients in the United States are being discharged from care before they die. Of this number, the article suggests, … Continue reading

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Kintsugi: Finding Beauty in Brokenness

Japanese ceramic art tradition highlights history and celebrates imperfection

The 15th century Japanese art of “Kintsugi” (golden joinery) or “Kintsukuroi” (golden repair) involves the mending of shattered ceramics with “urushi” lacquer and powdered metal — most commonly gold. The central philosophy of Kintsugi is that an object is made … Continue reading

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Our Weekly Tip: Include Ancient Ancestral Practices in Funeral or Memorial Services

Ancestral practices tie the living to the dead across time and place

Our Tip of the Week: In this age of secular dying and grieving, many people struggle to find meaningful ways of memorializing their loved ones that don’t lean on a superficial spirituality or empty platitudes. If this resonates with you, … Continue reading

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Soul Care Project Provides Free Non-Denominational Spiritual Counseling

U.S.-based nonprofit serves professional and family caregivers as well as the terminally ill

The Soul Care Project is run by the HealthCare Chaplaincy Network, a U.S.-based nonprofit healthcare organization. The SCP provides free, non-denominational spiritual support services. Its website provides resources such as counseling support, multi-faith prayers and meditations and advice for both caregivers and the … Continue reading

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“Death ends a life, not a relationship.”

- Mitch Albom
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