Stopping for a Funeral Procession

The Importance of Stopping

After a funeral service is over, vehicles will typically head out to the cemetery to lay their loved one to rest. The journey to the burial ground might be long and lonely. At that time, the family feels like the world stops spinning.

Because of that, family and friends form a funeral procession. 

A vehicle or funeral procession can be irritating for those who are not part of it. Some may honk at the vehicles; others will even try to get into the line to avoid arriving late for a business meeting or lunch date. 

But wait. Stop for a moment, and think about what you are about to do. 

The Origins of a Funeral Procession

Conventionally, funeral processions did not start with automobiles. The culture dates back to ancient civilization. 

For instance, the Greeks and Romans have their set of traditions when it came to carrying the deceased to the resting place. Europeans had their own, too. Once the funeral service was over, the procession involved a short walk to the cemetery. However in America, mourners would walk behind a horse and a carriage.

Funeral Procession in the Modern Era

In this era, mourners do not need to walk to the cemetery anymore. The mourners, instead, form a vehicle procession with the hearse ahead of the fleet of cars that follow. 

Different states in the US have different laws that govern these processions. In some major cities, a police escort is always in front to clear traffic. The escort also acts as an indication that a procession is ongoing. 

Again, cars have to turn on their hazards and headlights to show that they are part of the procession.

For veterans, organizations such as Patriot Guard Riders use motorcycle escorts to help in alerting other drivers.

What a Funeral Procession Means to the Family

At this time, the deceased’s family may feel like the world has stopped spinning. They know that after they lay their loved one to rest, they will not be able to see them again. They also feel an inner pain, which may take months to heal.

Therefore, the funeral procession helps mourners feel connected. It creates the kind of connection that shows the bereaved that they are not alone. Additionally, it allows all mourners to grieve, and is an indication that they are feeling the pain of being left together.

A Sign of Respect

Next time you see a vehicle procession, do not just honk, or feel like they are wasting your time. The procession is temporary. And since it means so much to the people involved, allow them to grief their loved one.

Furthermore, you may be in their shoes one day. Ask yourself how it would feel if someone tries to cut into the procession or even honk or say hurting words at you.
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