Fear not, Paul, that came out beautifully. My mother in law passed just a week before your mother and as we were closest to her in the end, those ashes now reside on our mantle piece. We personally put honouring her wishes above tradition, and I feel more comfortable with that decision with each passing day. Perhaps there is another way of finding that collective mourning while keeping her wishes intact?

I’m sorry for your loss and may your mother rest in peace.