Funeral services are overwhelming enough as it is. However, this can increase if you are asked to deliver a eulogy. But you shouldn’t feel anxious—if you have this responsibility, it’s because you were close to the person lost. If you’re worried about how to turn your thoughts into a story that brings your loved one to life for all who know them, here are a few tips to get you started.

How to Confidently Deliver a Eulogy

1. Organize Memories & Thoughts

Before you try to construct a sentence, write down everything you remember—their personality traits, and happy, sad, or funny memories. When you finish, set it aside, and come back to it later. When you do return, special phrases and words will jump out at you. Use these as the base of your eulogy.

2. Have a Clear Plot

Start crafting those stand-out words into a beginning, a middle, and an end. Treat it like a story, and introduce who you are, talk about what the deceased meant to you, how they were a part of your life, and then finish however works best for you. You may choose to recite a poem or piece of prose that you feel represents the deceased, or acknowledge friends and family left behind. Go with what feels right.

3. Take Your Time

Funeral services are sometimes run on a strict schedule, and you may have a set amount of time to deliver your eulogy. Don’t be disrespectful of time, but don’t force yourself to rush the tribute. Take the necessary time to produce a thoughtful, accurate portrayal, even if that’s quicker than you were given or pushes you a few minutes over.

4. Speak From the Heart

When you’re grieving, you may turn to clichés to express how you feel. Try to avoid this if possible, as it will sound like it lacks thought and authenticity. When you speak from your heart and plainly state how you feel, it is always a genuine expression of sympathy.

5. Remember Your Support Network

Nobody is waiting for you to make a fool of yourself. Everyone in the congregation is there because they lost the person to whom you’re saying goodbye. Cry, smile, and do what you feel is necessary, because you have the full support of the attendees behind you.

A family-owned and -operated business, Boyd Funeral Home in Lonoke, AR, is here to support you every step of the way while you plan funeral services for your loved one. They know how complicated grieving is, so they do all they can to help you decide on the type of service and ceremony you wish. You can visit the funeral home in person, call them any time on (501) 676-2375, or learn more about their services on the website.