Absolutely beautifully said Vi. Also I had to smile at your story of Missy (reminded me of that cat I told you about in my email...Toby.....).

As for viewings at funerals, I've had one "positive" experience - that with my Dad. He had been sick for so long - gaunt and tired looking...but my last look at him was in his Air Force uniform with his mustache trimmed - so handsome and YOUNGER looking for some reason. When I slipped the yellow rose (his favorite) into his hands I really thought he'd never looked better and THAT's the memory of him I have held onto not the "sick" Dad. Other experiences were not so positive...

Still I remind myself each time that the spirit is no longer there - it's just the shell.....the spirit is FREE at last.