What You Should Know Before Composing a Eulogy
You’ve been asked to deliver a eulogy for a friend, family member, or even your mother or father. What are you going to say, and how are you going to say it? Should you be humorous or serious? Is it acceptable to cry? What should the length of your speech be, and when can you deliver it? Unless you do public speaking for a living, this eulogy will most likely be a daunting task. You’re attempting to summarize someone’s life in a few words, and there’s so much to say. To assist, funeral homes in New Castle, IN have compiled a list of questions about eulogies.
What Am I Supposed to Say
Whatever you say should be tailored to the decedent and his or her personality. It would be inappropriate, for example, to give a comedian’s eulogy without telling some amusing stories. If the deceased was a child, being amusing could be interpreted as insensitive. Try to summarize what made the individual special or unique. Was the deceased a carpenter? Discuss the beautiful piece of furniture they made for you and the care that went into it. Were they interested in the outdoors? Discuss their favorite location and why it meant so much to them. If they loved their family more than anything else, let mourners know and discuss what the decedent did to demonstrate that love. Do not, under any circumstances, make the eulogy about yourself. Keep in mind that you’re telling a portion of someone else’s life story, not your own.
When Am I Going to Speak
This could be determined by the venue and its rules. Eulogies delivered during a funeral mass, for example, are frowned upon in some churches. If this occurs, you may wish to speak during a visitation before the funeral or at a gathering held following services. If you are permitted to speak at a church, discuss the schedule with the pastor ahead of time to determine if there is any protocol you must follow.
How Long Should I Talk
A eulogy should last no more than ten minutes. If you’re sharing the podium with other speakers, try to keep your remarks to three minutes or less. You may not believe it is possible, but consider that Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address is regarded as one of the greatest speeches in American history. He finished in three minutes.
Is It Acceptable to Cry
A brief catch in the throat, and a tear forming in the corner of your eye, are both fine. It’s also acceptable to take a moment to collect yourself when you’re overcome with emotion. Allow someone else to speak if you believe you will completely collapse and will not be able to finish your speech. Write down your speech and ask a friend or family member to deliver it for you. It’s okay if you’re too distraught to speak. Everyone handles grief in their unique way.
The subject of the eulogy should be known. What you say, whether funny, serious, mournful, or joyful, should help those gathered to get to remember the decedent a little better and what made that person unforgettable and unique. To learn more, please contact the funeral homes in New Castle, IN. Our licensed professionals can provide you with additional information on this. You are also welcome to visit our office and learn more information about what we can offer.
