This weekend has been a time of great ceremony and symbolism. The coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla brought ancient, 1000-year-old traditions, (and quite a few brand-new ones too) into people's living rooms for the first time in 70 years.
Familiar symbols abounded. St Edward's crown represented the King's power. The orb topped with a cross represented the Christian world and, in turn, the King's position as defender of the faith. The sceptre, set with the world's largest diamond, the Cullinan I, acted as a shorthand for the authority of the monarch.
But there were also more subtle, and personal symbols at play too. Intertwined roses, thistles, daffodils and shamrocks represented the four countries of the United Kingdom. Two small dog motifs embroidered at the hem of Camilla's gown represented her rescue dogs, Beth and Bluebell. And the Princess of Wales wore earrings belonging to her mother-in-law, Diana, to represent her continuing presence in their lives.
I've also had my own experience of unique and personal symbolism this week too when I led the funeral of a true Yorkshire gentleman. Family, close friends and neighbours knew his name, but he wasn't famous, or a king. However, in my eyes, his story was just as fascinating. He had lived his whole life in just the way he wanted to. He loved his wife, found great satisfaction in his work, and used his love of music to entertain others. And during his long lifetime, he created his own symbolism.
The piece of music chosen was one he loved. Butterflies had come to symbolise the love he had for his wife, so I also wore a small butterfly brooch on my lapel. And his trusty flat cap travelled with him on his final journey. It wasn't the jewelled crown of a king, but the moment it was placed on his coffin was as moving as any during the coronation.
Throughout our lives, we all create this type of symbolism, whether we are aware of it or not. Our personal symbolism might be a football team emblem or special colour; a flower or favourite animal; or a tool of our trade - a needle for a tailor, a spanner for a mechanic or a stethoscope for a doctor. What we read, the music we listen to or the hobbies we enjoy create a symbolic shorthand of who we are and what we love.
Tapping into this symbolism when planning a funeral ceremony is magical. A simple object on a coffin, a well-chosen poem, a special song, favourite flowers, and precious memories shared in a eulogy all work as shorthand to help us understand who the person was, what was important to them and how much they were loved.
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