As September nears, we are reminded of Fathers Day.

Fathers Day is a day that can mean different things to different people, even within the same family unit. Perhaps the person who died was a father, a grandfather, a son, a husband, a brother or perhaps a father figure to you. Maybe the absence of this person brings back memories of happy times spent together that will now be different because the significant person is not here.

A grieved person doesn't have to do what they have always done on Fathers Day as that can seem too empty or painful. Sometimes planning to do something different but still acknowledging the day can be helpful, such as ...

• a picnic in a different park
  
• lunch or dinner out at a restaurant or park
  
• lighting a candle
  
• having coffee and cake at the memorial park
  
• being with close friends
  
• go for a long walk along the beach or forest path
  
• playing some music that reminds you of him
  

Being active can help the day pass.

It is important to remember all family members are likely to be grieving in their own different ways, having their own needs. At an emotional time this can create strain within relationships in families.

As I remember my paternal grandfather (Pa C) and maternal grandfather (Pa G) on Fathers Day, I give thanks for fathers around the world and the important part they play in the lives of their children.

Kind regards,
Ian Cowling
General Manager

GHANA - In a country where funeral are considered one of the most important social events, Benjamin Aidoo is making a name for himself by offering bereaved families dancing pallbearers.

According to Bloomberg Business Week, the 27 year old Aidoo has brought the pallbearers to more than 200 funerals, bringing the dearly departed to their final resting places to the strains fo everything from reggae to gospel music.

Charging as much as 800 cedis ($400 AUD) a ceremony, Aidoo told Bloomberg he is now having to turn customers away.

Stretching over days, funeral celebrations in Ghana involve church services, receptions and burials. Families spend thousands of cedis on food and drink, shaded seating, a disc jockey or band, traditional drummers, brochures, posters, photographers and often a videographer capturing mourners filing by the casket.