If you’ve chosen to speak at a funeral, it’s a good idea to write out what you want to say. This speech is sometimes referred to as a eulogy, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to share some personal sentiments about the deceased. It can be difficult to know what to write, so we’ve put together a short guide to help you get started.
What To Include In A Eulogy
There are no set rules when it comes to writing a eulogy. What’s appropriate for one funeral might be inappropriate for another. If you knew the deceased well, you’ll probably know what tone to take. It’s also worth considering what the funeral attendees will appreciate, and keep any stories appropriate for them.
Your eulogy can include memories of time spent with the deceased, discissions of things they were passionate about, poems or texts which they adored or anything else which relates to them. Topics may include their childhood, significant life events, their work or their hobbies.
How Long Should A Eulogy Be?
A eulogy doesn’t have to be particularly long. While some people may find it easier to perform a longer speech, others may struggle with that. We think it’s a good idea to write a eulogy at a length that’s comfortable for you.
Have a written copy of the eulogy to hand, so you can read from it while you speak. If you struggle to finish the reading, someone else will be able to help you out if the words are easily available.
Don’t Be Afraid To Include…
Eulogies are hard to write for many reasons. There’s no reason to feel that you can’t include laughter, jokes or even singing! Funerals are about remembering your loved one, and celebrating their life. If you’re able to inject a little bit of fun and positivity in their memory, this is a wonderful thing. It may also help you to feel a little better about your loss.