Today, I took a family out on the water to spread the ashes of a loved one (wife, mother, grandmother, and sister of those in attendance). The last time they did this, they were taken to a specific place, put the ashes in, and that was it. I suggested we make it a traditional ceremony: go to the place they requested, do a circle to the left to represent a turn back of time, so as to never forget. Release the ashes. Do a circle to the right, to represent time and life goes on... and the two loops come together to make an infinity symbol. At that point, a ringing of the ship's bell 8 times to signify end of watch. Then some time in silence with the stern of the boat facing the placement, followed by starting the boat and a slow departure.
They were very grateful for this suggestion on how to do this in a traditional manner.
After the ceremony, I told them their family member "now has a front row seat to the wonders of all the places touched by the sea. She will begin her new journey, carried by the tides and currents, forever."
At their request, the first mate and I then took them out to Haro Straight, where they saw whales, and we gave them a scenic tour by some of the islands.
It truly was very touching.
I'm not ready to go right now, but this is a fitting way when the time comes.
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2 comments:
Well done Captain!
My heart is touched.
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