Death isn't a popular topic.
Surprise!
The word DEATH makes people squirm, turn away, blanch, go tight, and balk.
It's not as though it will skirt you, you're not the exception and will live forever, like a Vampire.
I learned a lot about the dying process and what happens afterwards.
Green burials are becoming popular.
It isn't illegal to have a dead body in your house. (Just have to call someone to report it.)
A body has a shelf-life of about three days, before you "run into problems."
You can bury someone in your back yard.
If you're all about cremation, the survivors have to be discreet about scattering the ashes (be aware of the distance- from-the-shore rules...and keep an eye on the wind direction!)
Having the tough conversations with family and friends regarding your own demise isn't impossible. Just takes guts, determination, direct and compassionate insistence, and patience.
Kinda like a mammogram - a necessary evil!
I like to be around the folks who're willing to talk about death. Since I tend to be the one in the room discussing the need to downsize shit before you die, I'm in good company.
Go home and take the plunge, talk about what you want before, during, and after you die. It'll be worth the time and energy.