incongruous

Inside hospitals and funeral homes exists an unnatural and forced placidity. Although both institutions are stages for trauma their dcor fails to acknowledge the drama taking place. The furnishings are chosen deliberately to allay fears and foster comfort. Unfortunately the generic nature of these decorations renders them ineffective and potentially humorous. As we are hurried and herded through life's most difficult moments the attempt to alleviate distress is impersonal and pathetic. The fact that we accept and expect this treatment speaks to the innate human desire to neatly package and ignore pain rather than expose its harsh realities.