A local clergy person called me recently and asked me to do a special favor for a family.  He contacted me directly since we have a very good working relationship.  I was able to comply with the request and give him an immediate answer.  This helped him as the family's clergy person and gave piece of mind to the family who was struggling with a sudden death while trying to make the necessary arrangements.

I was able to do what the family wanted because I didn't have to go check a policy manual or call corporate headquarters for a decision.  I had a personal relationship built on confidence and trust with this clergyman and was pleased to lend a helping hand.  The large, corporate-owned funeral homes are often unable to do such things.  Because of their size, they don't forge the community bonds and personal relationships that I've been fortunate to develop as a small, family-owned funeral home.