Ashes to bring to the temple

[dnightshade]

One of my friends passed away this month. He was going to burning man this year for his first time. It was obviously a surprise and we've been trying to deal with the unexpected change. We all agreed to still bring him some of his remains there. I'm sure that's what he would want.

We would like to set up some type of small scale memorial with a container holding his ashes. We were thinking about bring a poster signed by tons of loved ones, some pictures and letters... also a wooden container with small portion of his ashes. Is there any specific way to go about doing this? Any recommendations or thoughts?

[FaeTora]

I have never been to BM, this year will be my first burn ever. I do have a few things I can tell you.

If you are flying out there, the ashes have to be in the wooden box BEFORE you fly. You can not fly with a metal urn because it can not be examed by device and personnel are not allowed to open containers with human remains (even if you ask them too).

I hear duck tape or shipping tape is the best thing to bring to adhere poster or papers up to the Temple. And there will be many nooks to secure the box in the Temple.

I will be bringing the lady who's like my mom (B) to the Temple. I have a small wooden box filled to the brim with ashes (all I was allotted) with her picture taped to the top and will be bringing the last poem she wrote to place above it.

Her death too was sudden and it takes a lot of time to get over the shock. Its 2 months and sometimes I still expect her to come through the door and say it was all a horrible joke but I walk down and see the box, I know its not true.

This is my way of saying goodbye and letting her become part of the place she loved. I don't do well at memorail services; I just end up consoling everyone around me. But when I leave the Temple, I will have only the memories of her. Though I know I will cry, I will try to laugh. She always wanted us to remember the good times.

If I can be of any help please let me know.

[AntiM]

You just take the ashes to the temple and place them in it. Bring some tape or thumbtacks to secure the poster.

I can't go near the temple some years. It is awesome, emphasis on AWE.

I am sorry to hear of your loss.

[Isotopia]

Take what you need there to honor your friend.

Say what needs to be said, post what needs to be posted.

Everything will be OK.

OK?

[theCryptofishist]

If you want to set up a small "roadside" shrine in front of your camp, that's okay too. The Temple is the official place for "community" mourning, but if that's not the best way for you, we won't force you to it.

[Boijoy]

gooodddammm.. now I'm getting all teary. but I could NEVER skip the Temple. I need a good cry once a year.

[Clar-i-ty]

Last year as the temple burned, I imagined that all the little twisters that swirl from the fire are the spirits of those we have to let go. It was both sad and joyful at the same time. I couldn't help but imagine those spirits being se free by our fire.

[Nitevenus]

You might inquire if Goathead can accomodate you with his talent of making ashes and playa dust into a rock. He has a thread here and it seems a very touching tribute, one you can have as a keepsake. Keep a small amount for making the rock(s) and leave the rest at temple.

[Sham]

A picture of your friend in happier times and some written words along with the container of ashes is appropriate. You can look around and find a perfect spot for it, and no matter what, it wil be respected and honored by all.
My visit to the temple every year is always a somber one. I spend at least an hour there in silence. It's a sad place, but also a place for healing and closure. You will be giving your friend the ultimate honor by doing this in their memory.
I have yet to see the Temple burn. I have always left on Sunday morning. Maybe next year I will extend an extra day.
My condolences to you on the loss of your friend.