Several days ago I attended a presentation on Japanese death rituals. The one that caught my attention was the act of having a funeral or celebration of a person's (who I will refer as the honored person since not deceased) life while they are still alive, usually in their 60's or 70's.
During the celebration the honored person talks about their life's accomplishments and highlights and thanks those who helped them along the way. Attendees can offer testimonies concerning the honored individual. This celebration is viewed as a transition from a career and parenthood and other responsibilities to moving into retirement, rest, and more attention on ones self.
I like the concept. Why should we wait to our death and note hear how those around us viewed our lives? Wouldn't it be great to enjoy the food and drink others usually partake at the celebration of our lives?
