There may come a time in your life that you are asked to write a eulogy. Think of it as writing a speech… possibly the most important speech that you have ever written. Even so, it does not have to be looked upon as a daunting task.

The majority of those who are asked to write a eulogy have a great deal of knowledge about the people they will be honoring. (Usually it is a family member or close friend who is asked to deliver it.)

Because of this, there is typically little research that needs to be done. Many times biographical information such as names and dates are the only things that must be verified. The rest of the eulogy can be based on wonderful memories and personal experiences, shared with the deceased.

In the event that you are asked to deliver a eulogy for a person, whom you don’t know well, the first thing you should do is speak with friends and family members, if possible. They should be able to supply you with information and their own personal experiences, suitable for a eulogy.

Eulogies are not necessarily meant to be a chronological history of a person’s life. Although, in some cases that’s how they are written. Eulogies are meant to convey the reasons the deceased will be missed and how much he was loved.

Writing a eulogy should not be taken lightly. It is not something that can be written quickly. Some people actually find it easier to stick to a theme, during the writing process, making it a bit easier for the words to flow.

If you attended school with the deceased, you might want to focus on your school days.

If you are a family member you might want to talk about his childhood. If you are a coworker, you can focus on work-related memories and humorous anecdotes.

It is, in fact, acceptable to include humorous moments in a eulogy. While it’s probably not wise to crack jokes, a little humor will help to lift the spirits of those attending the services.

Funeral services are meant to celebrate the lives of lost love ones. Humor is an appropriate way to celebrate life.

Keep in mind, when writing a eulogy, this type of speech should last anywhere from four to ten minutes. However, don’t worry if it runs just a bit longer. No one will be timing you, with a stopwatch.

Even though death is a sad event, eulogies should always be written in an uplifting and inspiring manner. Again remember, the service and eulogy is held to honor the deceased and celebrate life. It is a wonderful idea to include any major achievements that occurred during the person’s lifetime.

It is important that you avoid any statements or references that portray the deceased in a negative manner. You can include poems, quotations or passages from the Bible, when appropriate.

There are many facets to planning a funeral. Writing the eulogy is just one of them. It should be written and delivered from the heart.