Death is one certainty in life. Most people have a funeral, memorial service, or celebration of life, and a loved one or clergy reads a eulogy. Eulogies are given during funerals, and they honour the deceased by reflecting on their life, accomplishments, and possibly their impact on others. Clergy or loved ones usually write eulogies, but why not write your own? Writing your own eulogy is beneficial and impactful. Here are several reasons to write your own eulogy.
Benefits of Writing Your Own Eulogy
- You control the story about you.
- Self-written eulogies are always personal.
- It lets you contemplate your life.
- It can inspire estate and legacy planning, including Lasting Powers of Attorney.
- Consider how you want to be remembered and comfort loved ones at difficult times.
- Grieving loved ones have one less task to complete while they’re upset.
Writing The Eulogy
So, how do you actually write the eulogy? Read on to find out.
Know your eulogy’s purpose.
A eulogy goes beyond a life summary. It gives your loved ones a unique look into your life and comforts and inspires them. Consider your eulogy a final message to loved ones, including achievements you’re proud of or personal tales that may resonate with individuals.
Reflect on life and legacy
Start by recalling life’s milestones. Consider how relationships, jobs, and experiences have affected your life. What are your greatest accomplishments? What obstacles have you overcome? You want to be remembered for what? Since nobody’s life is flawless, you should weigh both your successes and shortcomings. Your eulogy should include your life.
Decide on tone and style
The benefit of crafting your own eulogy is that you control the tone and manner. Your eulogy should represent your personality, but it will likely set the tone for the rest of your funeral or memorial event. Do you want humour? Do you prefer a formal eulogy because you’re more serious? Stay honest with yourself, and let the eulogy reflect you.
Eulogising structure
Although there are no rules, eulogies often last three to eight minutes and 500 to 1000 words. When writing your own, it can be tempting to ramble. Consider the following structure to stay on track:
- Introduction
- The ‘highlights’—upbringing, achievements, career, and relationships
- How values shaped your life
- Personal tales that show your individuality
- Final message to loved ones
- Conclusion, a final idea or statement
Write honestly and clearly.
Write your eulogy honestly. Instead of generic knowledge, speak from your heart and be yourself. Instead, focus on specific facts and anecdotes and exhibit vulnerability. Keep things tidy. Creating a sophisticated, flowery composition is enticing, but the purpose is to communicate your tale to loved ones. You want your family to understand your writing.
Revise
Review your eulogy after writing it. Put it aside and return to it. Does it flow? Do you get the desired tone? Make sure you like your writing. Writing your own is a great way to reflect on your life and future. It may encourage you to discuss death with loved ones and plan your legacy.
If you require help with estate planning, contact a professional, such as Intestacy Rules.