In Reply to: re: mourning, the irish way posted by Huh on January 28, 2007 at 11:50:11:

Not quite sure it is only for old people - I am 27 and have been at more than a dozen. It is however a very rural community think. And generally the wake is for someone who has NOT died young. i.e. to celebrate their life and be thankful of their contribution to life.

I must find it easier (but I have always had it as "normal"). Also, the "relative" speed of an Irish funeral is supposedly helpful in the mouring process. I must admit, I find it difficult in England where people come to work between the death and the funeral (even if it is their parents) as there is generally a 7-10day wait.