” It all depends on how we look at things, and not on how they are themselves” – Carl Gustav Jung 1875- 1961-

After reading an inspirational quote from the founder of the Analytic Psychology,  I decided to share my thoughts about the sensitive topic – death. I want to share with you my experience from panic, numbness, nervousness, empathy, respect, calm, to a peace.

Some call it a funeral. Others call it a celebration of life. It all depends on how to look at it.

I prefer taking the angle of celebration of life because it defeats my fear about the deceased and death. I remember the first time I set up a funeral, it was for a young girl who died at age of 8. My heart was pounding not only because I was nervous, but also because of my mixed feelings of shock, sympathy, and fear.

During the consultation with her family, it was also painful to listen to the parents talking about losing their beloved daughter so suddenly.  After the discussion, we decided to design with pink roses and gerberas because those were her favourite flowers. We don’t just put random flowers together, we put lots of thought into our designs for the particular occasion.  We spend extra time and designed beautiful flowers for the girl and her family. We wanted to create a beautiful memory and gave the best we can to the family.

The parents told me “Our daughter is beautiful. We want beautiful flowers to compliment her beauty in heaven.” I am so touched because of the unconditional love from parents is limit less.

When we set up the flowers, I prepared myself because I might see the deceased. I didn’t know how to cope with viewing someone who I didn’t know. But I am glad that I did the following gestures:

• Greeting with the deceased
• Viewing the deceased
• Showing respect
• Staying firm
• Giving positive blessing
• Feeling calm and peaceful

My experience of setting up the celebration of life service was peaceful and I didn’t have any fear or discomfort because I coped with my own fear.  I put myself in the family members’ shoes, showing my respect, giving my best blessing, and designing something beautiful for them. I am very happy and feel complete after all. I have learnt new strategies and experience in life.

As a florist, I encounter different stories, designed for different occasions and interact with various types of people. These are daily experience which expands my creativity and imagination. These experiences colours the chapters of my life.