There is an old saying that it never rains but it pours and it seems that’s the way it’s been for me with funerals.
In the last couple of weeks I’ve been to three or four and I’ve been awestruck by the lovely things that have been said about the recently departed.
In fact, I reckon it’s been a shame that the deceased, whose life we have been celebrating, hasn’t been there to hear them.
The tributes have been so wonderful that I’d like to start a movement where about a year or so before we are due to depart this mortal coil we have a rehearsal funeral. By that I mean we have a full blown celebration of our life which we can attend and hear all of the wonderful words that we would normally miss out on hearing.
Realistically, that’s impossible so, as a compromise, I want to start a movement where we tell our relatives, colleagues and friends what we think is wonderful about them before we are asked to offer them on their passing.
When you think about it, it’s very rare for us to say the lovely sorts of things we say in eulogies to a living breathing person. It would somehow seem insincere, kitsch or over the top. Yet, if we can say it on their passing, why can’t we say it before they go?
In summary, start telling people what you like about them now!
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A moving post, Winno. I saw you amid your sadnesses and would’ve suspected nothing without you telling me. You hold yourself so well and never seem to burden others with what ails you. I think your idea is a ripper. In fact, I’ve started with you. Kind regards always, P.
Thanks Paul and thank you for saying nice things about me which I will reciprocate. Next time we have lunch lets help each other write what we’d like said about us!
WOW Winno!
That is a real idea.
I have been concerned for some time about such things and am about to put a CD together of the music my life has followed. And, if I am lucky, someone might put words along with the music.
I am often stunned by what ‘Bill/Jill’ did and how s/he managed to survive or how s/he helped others.
Life is ‘too short’ but I haven’t heard anyone complain about being dead.
Yes, spread the word is the IDEA and I will.
Excellent Bruce and keep spreading the idea. Often, when I hear the eulogies about others I think “Crikey nobody could say such nice things about me”, so I’ll be interested to hear what they actually do say… I fear that they will struggle for words!
Oh Winno what a great idea! My mum in fact has it in place that as soon as she starts to feel on the decline she has a soiree to celebrate her life. Quite simply, she doesn’t want to miss the party. And what a smart approach?!
Yes Stu. A number of people have told me that they are going to work on an approach like I’ve suggested… and of course your mum would get to see all the beautiful flowers you and Jodie would organise.