FASCINATING OBITUARIES

Have you written yours yet? A few years ago, I realized I had begun to read every obituary in both the #IndianapolisStar and our local paper.  Many days, they are the most interesting thing to read, especially if you're fed up with political news.

Some obits are long and extremely detailed, which leads me to believe the deceased may have had a hand in it. Who else would remember every single award a person ever won, all the countries visited on their many trips, every job they've held, and all of their hobbies? Still, I enjoy all the details, but then I've always loved #autobiographies.

The published  names are also interesting.  Women often list three or four last names, beginning with their maiden name, then on to the surname of each husband. Some people who've been married more than once start by naming their first husband from whom they were divorced and had x number of children with. Then, they go on to name subsequent spouses and progeny. Inevitably, these detailed obits also describe the person's social life, club memberships, achievements not only of themselves , but their children.

Many spiritual people confidently state that the dead person has been received into the arms of their "Lord & Savior." I always admire that kind of faith.

Finally, will they have a conventional church funeral or a heathen #memorial service at cocktail hour? Some have both, but it's usually one or the other. Many opt for nothing at all as it is stated, " at Jack's request, there will be no services."

So, the next time you think there's nothing of interest in the newspaper, head for the obituaries!