New Ideas Generate Thoughtful Considerations.
 
This idea of establishing a ferret cemetery at FERRETS NW is, I believe,
worthy of some thoughtful considerations perhaps not displayed before in
this medium.  Although cemeteries often display memorials to the deceased
buried there, the question has come up about continuing the general theme
of cemeteries by the adornment of graves with religious symbols of various
kinds, as is seen in most human cemeteries.
 
Were such adornments placed on the graves of ferrets, which "religious"
symbols should be chosen?  Should it be the religious symbols of the
ferret's owner, or (and this is somewhat awkward) the religious symbol of
the ferret.  If the latter, one must ask, what is a religious symbol for
a specific ferret?  And further, what would be a religion for a ferret?
 
It has been noted on this FML that owners have expressed their will to be
together again with their beloved ferret that has crossed the rainbow
bridge when they themselves spiritually depart this ball of dirt.  Now
since few owners are convinced that their ferrets have gone to purgatory or
to the everlasting flames, but rather have gone to ferret heaven, they then
feel solice that they too certainly are heaven bound where they will
consort again in everlasting bliss with their furry loved one.
 
Let's hope that not too many of us are shocked and disappointed when our
clock-out ticket specifies a destination going the other way.  Oh dear!
 
Methinks this is anthropomorphism taken to the extreme - to the "religious
right," if you'll pardon the expression.
 
So let us together journey down the road to discovery and think a little
bit about what we'd like to see on our ferret's grave.  How about a bottle
of Ferretone encircled in a wreath of raisins?  Or for the super, really
good ferret an absolutely clean tray of cat litter, a chewweasel and his
favorite squeeky toy?
 
To the person who asked if out-of-state (Washinton State) ferret ashes
would be accepted to have a beautiful and final resting place here, the
answer is YES.  This will be true also for foreign ferrets.
 
And finally, now the big, big question for you: What do you have in mind
for a grave-side service at the actual burial?  Would a big bouquet of
flowers be appropriate and should somber and respectful funeral music
and/or singing be heard?  What dedication contributions should be expected
from the local ferret chapter, the Washington State Ferret Association,
such as the wearing of a simple fold of black ribbon on the shirt or lapel
when its combined membership is assembled at internment?  What funereal
costs would be appropriate?
 
Please feel free to offer your thoughts in this area that may be of a
serious and vital concern to most of us.
 
Edward Lipinski, who like Kevin Costner, not with wolves, but he who
dances with ferrets.
[Posted in FML issue 2701]