How to Skip a Family Funeral

In life, sometimes things happen at the most inopportune times, like the passing of a friend or relative. You might be in the middle of a business trip half-way around the world or have a huge presentation that you just can't miss scheduled at the office when you hear the awful news. Here are some tips on how to skip a family funeral.

Instructions

1. Weigh your options when you hear the news. Before you skip the funeral of a friend or family member, make sure that there is nothing that can be done which will allow you to attend. When you first get the news, a flood of emotions will be running through your mind. Set those emotions aside and think if there is any part of your schedule that can be rearranged.

2. Contact a close family member or relative. This is where you'll need to use a bit of judgment. Depending on the circumstances of death and how close you are to the situation, it may not be appropriate for you to contact the most intimate relative in the equation. If not, contact someone on the outer circle who can relay the message to that person. However, if you know the family well, then you should contact the next of kin directly.

3. Tell them that you are sorry for their loss. This is a time where they will need comfort. Especially when you are about to tell them something you may not want to hear. Take the time to comfort them and listen to them grieve for a moment should they begin to do so.

4. Be honest with the individual about why you must skip the family funeral. You don't have to make some grand excuse that is larger than life. In this time of grieving no one wants to be on the receiving end of a lie.

5. Avoid asking for permission if it's okay for you to skip the family funeral. They are not in a place where they'll want to force you to come to something and you're not in a place where you really want that permission. Many times in life, we "ask" for things because we don't want to feel offensive to the other person. You can be gentle in how you break the news, but asking them with a phrase like "Do you think it's okay if I miss the service?" will only make the situation awkward for everyone.

6. Remember to offer any help or assistance that you can give. Funerals have a lot of components. Everything from the choosing of the casket, wake, floral arrangements and reception takes a bit of planning and a significant amount of money. Offer to assist monetarily or in another way which shows your care and concern for the dearly departed.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that you don't have to explain yourself to everyone. People may disagree and be upset that you didn't make the funeral, but once it is over, it's time for everyone to move on with their life. After all, most people who pass on want others to move forward and succeed in life.