When Writing a Eulogy, The First Line is Often the Most Difficult

If you have ever had the task of writing a eulogy, then you know that coming up with the first line can be the most difficult. That first line is especially important, because it has the ability to capture the attention of those listening. You want to find an opening line that will draw the listeners in and make them eager to hear the rest of what you have to say.

You do not have to be a professional writer to find an appropriate first line. Inspiration can be found in a number of places.

The opening line of a eulogy can be a quote, a scripture verse or a sentence that will make the listeners pay attention. Below are examples of good and bad opening lines for a eulogy.

Good Examples:

To everything there is a season, and the season of John’s life on this earth is now passed.

The fact that we are gathered here today is proof that sometimes God says “no”.

Bad Examples:

Thanks for coming. This is a sad day for all of us.

As you all know, John was a great guy.

There are many ways to be inspired about that all important opening line. If you are a religious person, you could read scriptures about life and death. You could scour books and Web sites for quotes from famous writers about death and coping with loss. You can also think about these questions: What is the one thing you want those in attendance to remember about his life? What is the one thing you would tell him if you had one more chance to do so?

Inspiration can be found in many places. You usually will not have a lot of time to put together a eulogy. Since you will likely only have a day or two, you should begin to think about the first line right away. Jot down any ideas that you have. It might be that some of those notes end up not being appropriate, but it is still a good idea to write down anything that inspires you.

You will likely find that once you have settled on the first line that the rest of the eulogy will flow much more easily. Begin the writing process by finding that first line. It will set the tone for the rest of the eulogy and, once selected, will make the rest of the writing process much smoother.
photo credit: William Arthur Fine Stationery