Cremation

Frank Theuma (August 25) raised some very relevant points about cremation which should generate deep thought regarding such a sacred topic.

Before sharing my views, readers should please understand that even as a UK born citizen, now resident in Malta, I fully understand that I am living in a different culture which I respect and in many ways admire.

In the UK, lay the ashes of my father, mother and brothers after cremation. On the other hand, my grandparents, another brother and a close friend expressed their wish not to be cremated and this was also respected.

I believe that my soul/spirit separates on death, therefore my human form will be insignificant. I am sure most of us do not particularly wish to carry our cumbersome human bodies with us (unless perhaps we are at the peak of our condition). It is also worth remembering that some of us are now older than our parents etc. who may have died many years ago, so they will look younger than us (quite a thought).

Also, think of the millions of people who had no choice in their remains e.g., victims of war or holocaust, those lost at sea, and other catastrophies. We should all refer to Scripture for enlightenment in these areas.

Should I die tomorrow (it is not my intention to do so), I would not wish my body to be transported back to the UK but to be disposed of in a reverent way, perhaps by cremation. The rest would be left to the Providence of the Almighty.