Speaking of the Dead
Mom says you're not to speak ill of the dead. We have discussions of this nature when I am contrary to something she considers to be of importance. Sometimes speaking ill of the dead is ALL I want to do.When they pass from the earth hopelessly succumbing to some terminal illness or tragic accident those memories of how they treated me were all I can think of with their death.
"Speaking ill of the dead" refers to stating negative comments or similar judgments about someone who has passed this earth. Some say it is disrespectful to speak ill of the dead.
I say there are exceptions and varying perspectives regarding the separation of good people and dirtbags. I am told I should have respect for the dead. Derogatory comments are supposedly disrespectful to the person who has passed as well as their grieving loved ones.
Dead people are unable to defend themselves making mischaracterization more likely in the absence of counterpoints. I am told that I should have compassion for the bereaved. I do. I cannot help if their dearly departed was a scoundrel. I do not feel it necessary to overlook this fact either.
I don't request any special consideration for myself after I pass. Feel free to badmouth me all you like.
 |
In essence, that decision of whether or not to speak ill of the dead is dependent on circumstances which are disparate across the masses and cohorts of those alive and dead.
There are specific circumstances and motivations to take into consideration. It is quite possible that the appropriateness is relative to the position the departed held in the life of the remaining. Some of us prefer to let the vitriol be said for healing, marking the truth in the annals of history, or addressing injustice.
So if you're offended that I have no respect for your dearly departed just remember I could give a rip what you think about the matter. My attitude was forced on me and was never a choice.
The fact that he or she may be YOUR dearly departed is an irrelevant complication. It's totally between the departed and I. Others witnessing whatever transpires are collateral considerations, not prime ones.