Writing a Eulogy for a Loved One

It's understandably difficult when a loved one dies. Grief sets in, and saying goodbye can be a very spiritual and releasing feeling. One way is to write a eulogy. It's easy to write a eulogy for someone you loved. Heart-felt testimony will not only be good for the writer, but to those who will hear it spoken.

What is a eulogy?

A speech or piece of writing that praises someone who recently died. The eulogy is a tribute of the person's life lived.

How to begin

First it would be a good idea to get a pencil and paper to jot down the innermost thoughts. Write down anything that comes to mind. This can be a broad range of thoughts and memories.

The first draft or note cards

It's a personal preference to go with note cards or full written piece. Even the strongest speaker may have difficulties when overcome by sadness. I would suggest writing the full piece just in case it's needed. It can also be a written tribute to look back on later. In addition, I would type it out and double return each line. Spacing between lines will help keep sight of your place.

Selecting content

Now that there is a list of content, the first draft is ready to move along. There are no rules, good judgment and writing from the heart should suffice. The writer might introduce who they were to the loved one. Then include a mix of achievements, goals, favorite memories, humor and character. Then end with a powerful statement that the crowd will hold on to for a moment. Again, there are no set rules, writing what feels right is best.

Preparing to speak

Read over the material a few times. Then again, out loud a few more times. Make any adjustments needed to keep the eulogy flowing comfortably.

Tips

When speaking do what feels comfortable. Avoid making eye contact, scan the crowd without focusing and glance at each back corner of the room. This should help by not seeing the emotion of the crowd. Designate someone willing to take over in case it becomes too difficult to finish. It happens, it's expectable and everyone will understand.

I found these steps helpful when I attempted to speak a eulogy that I wrote. I'm not a speaker, but found that love overcame and was able to carry though. We shared tears and laughter that day. I felt better for it. Again, this is my experience and each is an individual loss and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. What works best for the surviving is correct and the only appropriate method.