When push comes to shove, funerals may not be for everyone. There are a lot of different things to think about, and every family is certainly different. But by and large, it is probably a good idea to preplan a funeral for your family. There are costs. But there are even more benefits, and they’re important benefits at that. If you or someone you know is looking for funeral homes in or near Charleston, SC, you should know there is an option in your area that will discuss the possibilities in an open and honest fashion. You deserve the right kind of information, and you deserve support that will really level with you when it comes to these kind of decisions. 

McAlister-Smith Funeral & Cremation isn’t here to convince you one way or the other. We know your family is unique, and we know it has unique needs. There is no way to come up with a universal policy when it comes to having a funeral or not having a funeral. This is really about your personality and your preferences. What makes sense in this instance? What works for your family? What will make the greatest impact going forward? These are the kind of questions you should be asking, and we can help you find some good answers. While there might not be a right or wrong answer in general, chances are there are answers that make the most sense for your family. That’s what matters. 

When trying to decide whether or not a funeral is right for you, one of the first things you can think about is what feels right. What are you most comfortable with? What seems like the best fit for you and your family? Much ultimately depends on the wishes of the deceased. Ideally, this is the kind of thing that you are thinking about and discussing in advance—long before anyone has passed away. A loved one’s wishes really are the bottom line. If they want or wanted some kind of funeral or memorial service, that wish should be honored whenever possible. If they want or wanted something more casual and intimate, a small gathering might be in order. And then some of us really don’t want anything at all. That’s okay, too. The big point is that there are certainly options. They do exist.   

As far as those options are concerned, there are also ways to compare them and think about them in greater detail. If you don’t have a gut feeling leaning one way or the other, consider the various advantages associated with each option. So for example, you should remember that a funeral serves as an excellent opportunity for friends and family to continue the healing process. No, it won’t end someone’s grief overnight. But it can make people feel better. Having a shared experience and paying one’s respects in a more formal and collective fashion can be a healthy way to do things. But alas, it isn’t the only way to do things. Some families prefer smaller gatherings that simply provide a few people the chance to remember and honor someone. It doesn’t have to be a particularly formal occasion. It still counts. Generally speaking, however, doing something is probably better than doing nothing.   

If you are interested in funeral homes in the Charleston, SC, area, consider reaching out to McAlister-Smith Funeral & Cremation. We know you may be uncertain about whether or not to have a funeral. We know you may wish to do things a little differently. Either way, we can help visit our location now.