Death, dying, is a painful subject, yet so many have a clear, precise, sometimes carried out and many times squelched or ignored, list of wishes about their own passing. Cremation, cemetery, head stone, commemorative plaque, park bench, road naming, foundation… There are many ways to be remembered and tons of interesting reasons why one might choose that ritual. I come from a family of writers and artists and was always taught that the work you leave behind is your mark, your legacy…

I have always loved cemeteries. I find them peaceful and sacred and yet the over use of land is a conundrum for me. Leaving behind one’s imprint is worthy of discussion and again, acknowledgement. We all have strong feelings about this subject and I for one am enthralled with the different forms and ceremonies that give people closure or peace or just finality. And often… a mark.

First, an alarming irony… On a beautiful country road… it grabbed me… I thought – a road that so many will travel… then, I wondered who Lillian was as I walked this gorgeous path in her memory and I smiled.