Here's a song that's in the Northern Harmony hymnal. My chorus, Animaterra, sang it a year ago. It says a lot about what we've been talking about.
Hallowell
1. I thought when someone died the spirit flew over furthest field.
Now I see death will leave behind (a scrap of light, a broken smile)
the remnants by which I might be healed.
REFRAIN: The Dead lift me up: In brightest sky, the clouds below me race. The Dead lift me up. I see them face to face.

2. Held high by these strong hands, breathing the wind I am born again.
The mountain flow'rs, the desert sands
Surround me now, comfort me now.
In death or dreaming I find my kin. REFRAIN
3. Our voices shake in song for memories we have long endured.
Though this begins to make us strong
(the combing through of shreds of love)
It is through living that we are cured. REFRAIN