In 2006, death is not a part of everyday life here. In the 19th century, people died at home, their funeral was at home. Not that they were less sad, but they were not as afraid of it as we are now.

The Internet has given people a control over prices, options, information and deals. It's given the traveler leverage. People feel it's worth dedicating the time to hunting for better hotel rates or flight times. They want not just to save money but to control their travel. People are being ever-more self-reliant.

We have worked with the state to put in many new services to keep people as close to the home as possible and in the least restrictive environment.

I never thought there could be so much life in a funeral home.

If we really think that home is elsewhere and that this life is a 'wandering to find home,'' why should we not look forward to the arrival?

They would use that as a remembrance.