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National Day of Reflection for all those affected by Covid - Tuesday 23 March 2021
Tomorrow is The National Day of Reflection for all those affected by Covid. It marks a year since the first Covid Lockdown began. But its devastating effect had already begun. People were unable to visit their loved ones in hospitals or care homes and many were unable to be present when their loved one passed away.
For those left behind, just when they needed human contact the most, they were shut away with their grief. No coming together to support one another, just loneliness and isolation. Those who were still grieving from long before the lockdown felt this effect too.
In the funeral profession we were prevented from spending time with our families prior to the day itself and could no longer offer empathy and support in the way of hugs and handshakes. In answer to families’ requests, rather then replying “Yes, of course you can” we could only respond with “No, I’m afraid you can’t” time and time again.
Covid has wreaked havoc indirectly in so many ways too, from those needing check-ups or treatment for other conditions who have been put on the back burner, to those, particularly the elderly, who have experienced a rapid decline in their physical and mental health.
Though we may never return to “normal” I hope it isn’t too long before we can proceed with compassion and common sense to carefully bring people together once more.
Please pause for a minute of silence tomorrow at 12 noon in memory of those we have lost, those who are still fighting and those picking up the pieces.
Wrottesley Natural Burial Ground
Wrottesley Natural Burial Ground
A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of taking another service at Wrottesley Natural Burial Ground.
This is the most beautiful, tranquil spot, tucked away so well that many people are completely
unaware of its presence. Turning off Wrottesley Park Road, a tree-lined track takes you down to a
green oasis which is a complete contrast to the city just a mile or two down the road. Unspoiled
and unstructured, little paths meander their way through the grass and it is a haven for wildlife.
The burial ground hosts full burials and interment or scattering of ashes and families have enhanced the area by planting trees or commissioning beautiful, oak benches in memory of their loved one. There is only ever one service a day, so families can take all the time in the world to say goodbye without feeling rushed. Music can be played if desired and the burial itself feels so much more gentle and peaceful. The whole process is very flexible and Chris and the team will do their best to accommodate any wishes you might have. They will even return to putting the kettle on again once restrictions are lifted further!
I was amazed to discover how much cheaper a burial is at Wrottesley, yet another plus. Our service that day was for a lady who adored nature and so, alongside her husband once more, it could not have been a more perfect spot. I was fully prepared for the weather but, although rain was forecast, it remained dry, much to everyone’s relief. After three months of madness it felt good to jump off the hamster wheel for a while, to hear the birds sing and absorb the calm..…….and breathe……….
