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]