I recently had the privilege of conducting the funeral of a former work colleague, who had been very interested in my work as a celebrant when we met for lunch last year, and had subsequently left instructions that he would like me to conduct his ceremony when the time came.
This was the second time in recent months that I was called on to lead the funeral of a former work colleague, and its always such an honour to be able to share someone's story, especially when it's someone I've known myself.
Finding out about the person's life and all of the places, pastimes and people who were important to them, and then crafting their story into a ceremony to celebrate their life is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work as a humanist celebrant.
Friends often ask me if it's sad, or difficult to conduct a funeral, but I always tell them that being able to work with a family and help them to get through one of the most difficult things they'll ever have to do is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job. I genuinely love being there for them, and being able to make a difference for the family, when they need it most.
A friend who was recently bereaved shared this poem, and I love the words. To me, this is the very essence of what a funeral is all about.
Still by Char March
Listen. There is this silence now. This stillness.
Gradually we will get used to it. But, for now,
It is strange.
You have left such a gap.
Our world is in shock, holding its breath.
But listen closer – all your laughter, all your love
Is still ringing out. Still holding us. All our memories of you are still with us.
All the love we shared is still in every one of us.
And although we ache from the loss of you,
You will always be here – as still and steady,
And fierce, as any star. Look. You are shining
Bright through all our skies.
Thank you
For being here with us.
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