How Does a Eulogy Affect the Funeral?

The Eulogy as a Unification Tool

There is no one way to express grief. The expression of that emotion is an unique as the mourners themselves. As we know, the only way to gather certain groups of people together is either at a wedding or a funeral. In this case, the eulogy, a vital part of any funeral, can impact the mourners in such a way as to give them a forum to come together for the expressed purpose of grieving, regardless of their differences. So the first part of the eulogy should not be about the simple eloquence of the speaker but an invitation for the attendants, edifying them and inviting them to participate in this process.

Comforting the Family

The eulogy operates as an avenue for emotional comfort. Funerals are more for the living to express their emotions, and the eulogy should assist in the comfort of those closest to the deceased. It also allows people the opportunity to acknowledge their own grief and share in the experience with the family.

Bring Closure for the Mourners

One of the hardest things to accept in the grief process is that the person is truly gone. In a eulogy, a favorite poem, amusing anecdote and heartfelt remembrances are expressed, giving the attendants the acceptance of a life well spent and a hope for the future. It also allows the mourners to examine their own lives and perhaps assess where they can make their own lives better.

Resources

• A sampling of eulogy poems