Kharon

Today the dead are mourned differently.

A century and a half ago when offspring died before reaching adulthood, eyes were lifted to the heavens and prayers were whispered to whomever was listening: 'allow me to keep the next one'.

In an age where we realize that most likely there is no one on the other side. Where illnesses which consumed large parts of population brackets have gone near extinct. Where wars are rather the exception than the rule. Where technology improves our physical safety.

We look at the dead differently.

We pity the dead more.

They are the marathon runners who had to quit in the last meters of the race. Seeing the finish line with its cheering crowds and the feeling of victory in our legs, it makes seeing those having to exit a more painful experience.