My Last Testament
Our society has shut death out, almost as a denial of its existence. This denial leaves both the dying person and the family or friends totally unprepared for something that is inevitable. We are all going to die. But rather than acknowledge the existence of death, we try to hide it. It’s as if we are trying to convince ourselves that ‘out of sight, out of mind’ really works.
Sometimes, I too forget one day I’ll close my eyes, and that will be the last time. After seeing so many people go at times when I least expected, I’ve come to realize the truth in “we die every day.” I know no matter how much I cling to life, pray to God to stay with my loved ones, one day I will draw my last breath. Daily, I try to do the best I can for my family, friends, and myself. Memento mori.
Like Fitzgerald Afful, I’d want a bit of drama during my burial: someone, probably one of my friends, inconsolable, descends into the grave and says, “No. NO! Nooo oo. I do not want to go with him. But he said he wanted to be cremated”. 😂
I’ve digressed far enough. Now to my last testament. If I die before I wake, consider this my last testament.
I know it’s hard to lose someone you love. Most times, it’s hard not to cry, but I plead with you: do not shed tears for me. Be happy as I’ve lived a good life and given the best as far as I could. If you must cry, please find a room and cry as much as you have to feel better when you hear the news. Life goes on now. So the next day, please, put away the sorrow. Remember and cherish the good times we were blessed to share.
When I’m gone, I want a simple funeral. Hopefully, I would’ve saved enough to cater for my funeral expenses. No one week and sitting of family friends from Friday to Sunday. Please bury me at most after two weeks after a holy mass celebration. Once I’m laid to rest, preferably on a parcel of land I would’ve purchased partly for that purpose, that’s it. Then, the next day, my closest friends and family can meet up and have a good meal. No tears, just good vibes and great stories.
