final passage

Attended Uncle Ong's funeral this afternoon. The mandai crematorium is cool. A good place to go to if not for the purpose for which it was built.

Mum and dad followed me. It is great we can still do stuff together. We got there early and did not go to Singapore Casket but straight to the place. As such we had time to take in the sights so to speak. I like what they did with the place. It is like an oasis in the desert(or in the forest in this case if that makes any sense at all).

It has water features such as a waterfall and a koi pond even. The main building is fully air-conditioned and equipped with modern technology such as automated escalators,lifts,electric notice boards and these electric operated trolley like things that make coffin transport so much easier. It is so peaceful and dignified. Only thing lacking is piped-in music to complete a Zen experience. Seriously.



I was surprised that no one else from the office took the time to attend. In a way we are more family to him than his blood family. Just taken aback by the lack of support.

It was a solemn occasion presided by a buddhist monk. The 3 kids did the usual joss holding/bowing down thing. Not sure what it is called. Paying respects for lack of better word(s). Quite a number of people turned up. Close to 40. But no one i knew besides the kids and the 'wife'.

We sat near the back and observed the proceedings.

After the rites had been performed the body was carted out and we all went to the viewing room which consisted of a huge glass panel and a multi-tiered viewing platforms. From that vantage point we could see clearly the room below. The coffin slowly made its way towards the crematoria on this automated trolley.Doors open and closed on cue. At the appropriate time the coffin was lifted and placed inside. The door closed blocking off our view of the furnace.

the end.

I am all for advances in technology but in a way it did feel rather impersonal the way everything happened so mechanically. But I guess it was tasteful and dignified in a modern sort of way.

After the do, we (the 3 of us) headed back to the car and headed home.