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October 2002
Writing
a Memorable Eulogy
"Good night sweet prince; and
flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!" - William Shakespeare
These lovely words from Shakespeare's immortal
play "Hamlet" are one of the most famous eulogies ever
written. Even though we may not possess the literary skills of a
William Shakespeare, it is still possible to create a memorable
eulogy to memorialize a departed friend or loved one.
No one expects perfection in the delivery of a
eulogy but rather a heartfelt tribute to a life well lived. It will
help you with your eulogy to remember that your words will help
to start the healing process.
An excellent booklet "Goodnight, Sweet Prince
- You Can Give a Eulogy" written by William Schmidt and published
by the National Funeral Directors Association contains many excellent
suggestions that can help you deliver a memorable eulogy.
Here are some of Mr. Schmidt's suggestions:
1. Gather information about the person. Remember
that a eulogy is supposed to summarize a life in a positive way.
Talk to friends. Identify two or three positive traits. Write down
how you feel and, if possible, give a reason for your feelings.
2. Organize your information. Check with other
speakers to avoid duplication. Make note of one or two short stories
about the deceased. You might want to mention a person's hobby,
or what inspired them to enter a certain profession. Be positive
and write like you speak.
3. Before delivering the eulogy, be sure to thank
your introducer and those who have come to the funeral. Mention
who you are and your relationship to the departed. Not everyone
at the funeral may know you, or why you are delivering a eulogy.
4. Be brief -- five to ten minutes should be enough
time. Take a deep breath; use simple words and slow down when you
are speaking.
From my own experience, I find that going to the
library and looking through "Bartlett's Book of Quotations"
can provide valuable inspiration for writing a memorable eulogy.
Your eulogy will be perfect because it has
come from your heart.
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