In many cultures there is a suggestion to believe, since childhood, that death should be rejected as it is intertwined with fear. They grow up absorbing this as a concept intrinsically related to destruction and suffering. Therefore, when it's time for a beloved one to depart, even the most peaceful or necessary goodbyes are seen as the worst thing that could happen.
Despite the fact that I’m far from being a religious person, I’m really passionate about holy places. However, I had to process a few self-judgements until I realized that I can be a detached admirer from a distant observer. I don’t have to be a follower of any doctrine in order to praise and respect them.