Should You Keep or Scatter Your Loved One’s Ashes?

One reason people may choose direct cremation in Shorewood, WI. is so that they may have their ashes spread back into nature. Other people may like the idea of cremation but want their ashes kept together in an urn. But what if you have a family member who has chosen direct cremation but no preference on what to do with the ashes afterwards? Should you keep them? Release them? 

There are definitely pros and cons to each scenario and what you and your family choose is a very personal decision. We are going to look at each option a little more so that you can make your best choice. 

Releasing Ashes 

As mentioned, one of the most common reasons people choose cremation is to have their ashes released back into nature. While this is a beautiful idea, it does come with some rules to know and follow. 

One thing to note is that you cannot simply release human ashes anywhere you wish. While there are many places you can scatter them, you may need to acquire the proper permits beforehand. Also, many public places, such as state and national parks, have additional rules to follow that include things like where the ashes can be released and how many people can attend the gathering. 

Another thing to consider when releasing ashes is that once they are released, they are gone. You typically do not have a marker or space that you can go to and visit when you want to feel close to your loved one. Also, if you scatter them in a certain area, there is no guarantee that area will remain the same in the future. For example, you may find a wonderful local park to release the ashes only to find it be a parking lot in future years. 

Keeping the Ashes 

Many families may decide to keep the ashes in an urn. This urn can then be placed in a family member’s home, a columbarium niche, or even buried. One advantage of this is that it offers families a designated place to go and visit when they want to connect with their loved one. 

Some families may even opt of keepsake urns. These are smaller urns that a portion of the remains are put into. This way several family members may each have a small portion of the remains to keep in their own home. 

While keeping the remains in an urn can offer the opportunity for a visual way to connect with your loved one, it may not be as spiritual to some as releasing the ashes back into the world. 

Final Thoughts 

You can see that both acts of releasing the ashes or keeping them in an urn have their pros and cons. This is an extremely personal decision and will be different for every family. After your loved one’s direct cremation in Shorewood, WI., sit down with your family and discuss what aspects are most important to you. Also, since the remains will be returned to you in a temporary urn from your cremation provider, know that you don’t have to decide right away so there is no need to rush to a decision.