If you are planning to speak at a funeral or life celebration you will often end up using the person’s own words to give a flavour of their personality, be they erudite or simple, sad or amusing.
What if you are planning your own funeral? It’s the perfect time to pass on well-chosen words of advice to those you leave behind, whether to guide them through their grief, encourage them for the future, or just to pass on your words of wisdom.
In either case, quotations from others can help you give clarity to your thoughts. So I’ve put together a few examples to get you thinking, plus a Quotation resource page with links to lots more helpful sources.
Quotes that express your feelings for each other
Sometimes putting into words the depth of your feelings is impossible. It’s easier to look at words you have shared with your family and friends; books or songs or articles you have enjoyed together, and let those words speak for you.
My son chose these words for his wedding, but they so clearly express enduring love that they would be perfect for a funeral:
I found a quote from Bob Marley, which is worth reading in full here. “Only once in your life, I truly believe, you find someone who can completely turn your world around… When something wonderful happens, you can’t wait to tell them about it, knowing they will share in your excitement. They are not embarrassed to cry with you when you are hurting or laugh with you when you make a fool of yourself… Colours seem brighter and more brilliant…You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible. You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure… You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soul mate who will remain loyal to the end.”
Quotes to guide those left behind
It’s a privilege of thinking about your own funeral that you can choose words that you know will help your nearest and dearest go on without you. You may want to acknowledge the grief and chaos of death, but urge your loved ones to carry on living life to the full.
“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming ‘Wow! What a Ride!'” Hunter S. Thompson
“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” Ludwig Jacobowski
Take a look at our Quotation Resources and let us know what best captures your feelings.