Preparing to Write a Eulogy

The loss of a loved one is never easy. If you have been asked to write and deliver a eulogy, you are dealing with your own sense of loss which can make it difficult to be able to prepare to write such an important item.

Because you want to be able to properly honor the decedent, it is important to take the time to prepare to write a eulogy that will be impactful, meaningful and memorable.

Set Time Aside

In order to write an appropriate eulogy, you will need to set time aside to do so. Depending on how involved you are with the rest of the funeral planning, this might be a challenge, but it is necessary. You might consider removing yourself from the flurry of activity by heading to a local library, coffee shop or other quiet spot. This will help you to focus on the task at hand without interruptions.

Draw on Memories

When preparing to write a eulogy, it is a good idea to jot down several memories that you have of the decedent. You may not use all of them in the eulogy, but it is helpful to have the list of memories handy as you are writing.

You should also make a list of accomplishments that you might choose to include as well as of the values that meant the most to the one who has passed on.

Find Appropriate Quotes

Another step in preparing to write a eulogy is to gather a list of quotes, poems and/or scripture versus to use. Browse books, Web sites and other places for meaningful scriptures and quotes. Jot down the ones that catch your eye. As with the memories, you will not use every quote, but having a list handy will help you as you are writing the eulogy.

Dealing with Emotions

Another important part of preparing to write and deliver a eulogy is understanding how emotional you may feel when it comes time to read the eulogy. While it is perfectly normal to feel emotional at such a time, it is important that you find a way to deal with those feelings so that you will be able to deliver the eulogy. There will be plenty of time to deal with your own grief. Those few moments that you are at the microphone is the time to honor the one who has passed.

Read the eulogy out loud over and over again, so that when you read it during the service, you will have a better chance of keeping your emotions in check.

Preparing to write a eulogy is not a pleasant task but, when done properly, it can bring honor to the loved one that you have lost.
photo credit: Magic Madzik