MENTION THE UNMENTIONABLE

     There has been a recent trend, particularly among psychologists, in discussing and writing about death.  Rather than being seen as a morbid development, the admission of death is actually considered rather healthy, AND practical.
     On the personal level, one can remove death from the list of unmentionable topics by talking openly and frankly about funeral plans and making a Will.  Including your family and loved ones in such a discussion will ultimately do more to prevent pain and anguish than any discomfort saved by leaving them in the dark
     Naturally, if you are married you should consult with your spouse.  The same applies if you are a single adult living with a friend.  You might be startled to find out that he or she often thought about the subject but was afraid to mention it to you for fear of being thought insensitive.