Nature’s Call
Both Janette and Chris have always found joy in the great outdoors. “I just am alive with energy about how much I love this place,” Janette shares about Better Place Forests, her words painting the picture of their deep connection with nature.
The idea of traditional end-of-life arrangements never appealed to them until they discovered that they could become a part of a thriving forest, forever.
“I like being able to envision myself being part of life, even after death.”
—Janette, Point Arena Memorial Forest, California
A Cultural Shift
Discussing death is often taboo. It’s a topic that’s brushed aside until fate forces the conversation. Janette and Chris were no different in the beginning. “In our culture, we don’t really talk about death before it happens,” Janette reflects. However, the concept of Better Place Forests struck a chord with them, offering a space that allowed for both remembrance and the continuation of life.
“When you come to this forest you leave here feeling better. You leave here feeling healed, nurtured and hopeful.” —Janette, Point Arena Memorial Forest, California
From Indifference to Inspiration
The turning point for Chris came via Janette’s gentle persuasion to visit Point Arena Forest. “The opportunity to come visit here, kind of envisioning people being here together, all came together to truly convince me,” he admits. The conservation efforts behind Better Place Forests, combined with the beauty of the setting, sparked a change in perspective.
Envisioning a Legacy
For Janette and Chris, choosing Better Place Forests became more than planning for death; it was about celebrating life. “Better Place Forests spoke to me,” shared Janette “because it’s an opportunity for me to actually be a part of nature, and part of the forest.”
Better Place Forests offered them a way to honor life in a living forest, a sacred place where friends and family can gather to remember and connect. “When someone passes, you’re kind of losing something, but if you have something that you’re gaining in the process, well, there’s something special about that.” Chris remarked.
