There comes a time when each of us is suddenly confronted by the stark reality of death. Our nearest and dearest are called to their Eternal reward, leaving a great voice in our hearts. At such a time, we have a profound desire to honor the memory of our loved ones in accordance with the Tradition of our faith and our people. Yet, at that moment, we often find ourselves faced with a multiplicity of vexing questions concerning these Traditional practices for which we have no immediate answers, or we find conflicting opinions. 
The time to understand the practice and theory of the rituals of mourning and the wisdom of consolation, is when the mind and heart are tranquil. These are the moments in which to prepare one self for that which is inevitable, irrevocable and which ought not break our spirit.