When did you last write or give a eulogy for someone who recently passed away? Have you ever given a eulogy?

Recently, I was asked to write and deliver an online eulogy for someone I have never met in person. While we have never met, I've been on several of his podcasts, and we have spoken on the phone numerous times.  I consider him a friend.

What will people say about you at your funeral? What do you want people to say?

I know people who read the newspaper's obituary section either in print or online to remain humble and to remind themselves that one day, someone will be reading their obituary.

I had never written a eulogy before, although I have heard that it is an exercise we should all do because:

1. You Control The Narrative - As the saying goes, "You write the eulogy (book, article, or blog), you control the narrative. You can highlight proud accomplishments and downplay or leave out things you wish people would forget.

2. Reflect On Important Events - Writing your eulogy gives you time to reminisce about your life and discuss the events and experiences that shaped you into the person you have become.

3. Leaving Your Legacy - Crafting your eulogy allows you to pass down the advice and knowledge you want others to understand. You can offer it to your family, friends, and associates to gain insight into what events made you into the person you are. It could also be helpful for relatives doing genealogy research on the family.   

4. Celebrating Life - Funerals are usually sad and depressing occasions. That's the environment where eulogies are delivered. By fashioning your eulogy, you can emphasize the things you want. You can tell a funny story, recount a great friendship or love, or discuss a career or purpose for which you want to be remembered.  

It's important to remember that writing your eulogy is a personal choice and may not be suitable for everyone. Some may prefer to leave this task to a loved one or clergy. However, for those who wish to take control of their narrative, a self-penned eulogy can be a meaningful and powerful way to do so.

If, like me, you are asked to give a eulogy for a friend or family member here are some things you should and shouldn't do:

Do - be respectful, try to capture the person's spirit, use humor by telling a funny story, express gratitude for the people left behind, and above all, keep it short.

Don't - exaggerate or lie, use unfamiliar references, tell inappropriate or negative stories, make it all about you, fail to prepare for how what you say may affect you emotionally. 

In the end, remember that what you say during a eulogy should honor and respect the life and spirit of the deceased and their family.

Please leave me a comment about preparing or delivering a eulogy. Your opinions and perspectives are important, and I'd appreciate hearing from you.