We went to a memorial service for a friend from work yesterday. It might have been the first completely secular service I have ever been too. No mention of God. No mention of any higher power. One of the speakers did mention that the deceased practiced "native American spiritualism", whatever that means. The "service" consisted of remembrances, a couple of videos, and stories from the audience. Many of them were laced with strong language and bordered on risque. Only one person said anything about how important the deceased was in that he affected so many people (there were 300 or so at the service). It was actually a little depressing to not hear the Christian message of hope in the new life with God after death.

I knew the deceased pretty well. He was a great person, easy going, helpful, a good employee. I had no idea about his other life as a square dance caller and dancer and the multitude of people that he impacted in that way. I wonder if I were to die, would people at work know what I stand for? I hope so, but I'm not sure.