What is a sotoba stick?
In basic terms, it is the name of the deceased individual that is written on a
sotoba, a separate wooden board that stands on a stand behind or next to the
grave that. These ‘sticks’ may be erected shortly after death to offer prayers
and good wishes, and new ones may be added at certain memorial services. They
are commonly found in Japan where cemeteries often double as picnicking
grounds, a concept we would find strange in this country. I recently made one for my last dog who died a few years ago and
placed it in the back grounds of my land. It is somewhat crudely made but I
like to think that I captured the spirit of its intended meaning.
