Have you been asked to deliver a Eulogy or Tribute at a Funeral

It is an honour to be asked to speak at the funeral of a family member or friend, but many people find it a daunting proposition.  Here's a few thoughts which might help:

• You don't have to accept the offer if you think you don't have a lot to say about the person or if you feel it will be too hard
• Writing and delivering a eulogy will be difficult, but
• It will be a good thing for you.  It will help you in your grief process and will honour your deceased loved one.  It may also offer comfort to other mourners.
• Be sure to make notes in the days leading up to the funeral.  If you speak "off the cuff" you may forget something important and regret that you did not include it.  You can read your tribute or speak from your notes, whichever you feel more comfortable with.
• Be guided by the celebrant about the appropriate time to take.  Short, sincere and succinct is best.
• Gentle humour often adds a real human quality to a eulogy.
• Remember who your audience is
• Practise, practise, practise
• Accept that you may become emotional or cry, and if you think that is a real possibility, you might like to ask someone if they can be available to take over for you if you can't continue
• Giving a eulogy will be very rewarding for you - you will be very glad that you  made the effort