but for now and at least the majority of my adult life (32) I have felt this way all I can say is dont look down on your partner for what he beleives my family have finally excepted how I feel and I feel at peace with my beleifs now
rach thanks for sharing your beliefs. i can assure you i don't look down at my DH in any way, that is not how our r'ship works i know he is very spiritual and i want to best understand his beliefs but this is an area where we have had many discussions and we both struggle to best communicate how we feel and what we believe. DH calls the grey areas 'conundrums' and he freely admits he doesn't have all the answers and he really searches and prays to god about them. i question and challenge him on this issue (as he does with me on this and other issues) as i want to understand, and i guess i want him to make a really well informed and thought about decision and one that i know is his wish if ever it came to that. being the next-of-kin for the first time is a responsibility i take really seriously.

i totally accept and respect the spiritual part of his life - after all it is probably what makes him the most wonderful gorgeous caring man that he is. and love him for his passion and path in life.

for me i am much like hoobley, and while i want my organs to be used if they are needed, what is left over of my body i am not concerned about. i have expressed a preference to be cremated but i have done this to remove any possibility of conflict in my family over what i may have wanted done with my remains.