Rev. Dr. Matthew Richard – Minot

In North Dakota, funeral processions have the right-of-way at all intersections, implying processions can run red lights and drive through stop lights. But why?

Funeral processions are given special treatment to show respect for the deceased and compassion to mourners. Tragically, though, in the last 20 years, respect and compassion have waned regarding funeral processions. Where vehicles once used to pull over with flashers, funeral processions are now met with insensitive frustrated looks, impatient and aggressive passing, or careless disregard.

Is this shift due to a negligence of cultural driving etiquette regarding death? Perhaps this may have something to do with it. However, the more reasonable explanation is the lack of reverence and indifference for the living. In other words, how a person treats the dead reveals their “reverence” or “indifference” toward the living.