Reflections on a Fancy Funeral

I like the lyrics of Lucinda Williams song "Fancy Funeral", that I have posted below. It is a true reflection on the desire to get back to what is really important, and to say, in the moment of importance, hey, this is how I feel and we don't need to follow a path that leads us into mass consumption and ridiculous spending. It's the memories of the person, holding the person in your heart, never forgetting, recalling the little things you loved about the person that keeps you intact, keeps you from feeling such a deep sense of loss all at once.

The song is also about the pressure some families must feel who really can't afford all the expected funeral extravagances. I know that religion plays a very important part for lots of people, but spending money will not matter to the God of your choice. Showing your love can be done with caring, and taking the time to be present for that person.

The words are not as effective in print as they are when sung by Lucinda with music, but you can get the idea.

Some think a fancy funeral will be worth every cent
G           C                              C
But every dime or nickel is money better spent
G                                          G
Better spent on groceries or covering the bills
G                     C        Em             G
Instead of little luxuries and unnecessary frills

G                                        G
Lovely yellow daffodils and lacy pillow fringe
G            C                     C
Pretty little angels for everyone to see
G                                   G
Lily of the valley and long black limousines
G                            C           Em                     G
It's three or four months' salaries just to pay for all those things
G                                                       G
So don't but a fancy funeral, it's not worth it in the end
G                      C                                     C
Goodbyes can still be beautiful without the money that you spend
G                                                           G
There's no amount of riches that will bring back what you've lost
G                 C        Em      (NC)         G
To satisfy your wishes, no way to justify the cost