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Planning for your Funeral or Celebration of Life Ceremony
Do you think about what your funeral might look or sound like?
Have you attended people’s funerals and either really enjoyed or disliked some parts of their service?
Are there ideas or things you definitely do want included in your own service- or definitely do NOT want?
Do you want to make sure when the time comes, the Celebration of Life for you, your partner, parent, or a loved one is exactly what suits you or them?
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I can help you. Time spent talking through ideas and doing some planning can not just bring you peace of mind, but also guide your family at what can be a very stressful and difficult time. Some families find it difficult to discuss the possible death of a family member, or to let others know of their wishes.
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So, what can I help you with?
I can talk with you or your relatives about the personal things- not only the basics, like what type of service is wanted ( church or chapel; burial or cremation; traditional or green; serious or full of fun; music, readings, etc).
I can take the time and have you share with me your life story:
· the timeline of your life and important events
· places that are special to you – from where you have lived and worked, but also holiday spots and places that may have changed your viewpoint or how you look at life
· people who have meant a great deal to you. We have all met people - relatives, friends or colleagues- who have had an impact on our lives. Some people share crucial moments in our lives- be it good or bad.
· Your best and worst times in life- what have you had to overcome? What have been your greatest achievements or things you are most proud of?
· Your passions and things that are important to you. Do you have a philosophy or belief that shaped your actions and the way you interacted with others?
· What do you hope will be your legacy? How would you like to be remembered- for what? Which aspects of your life do you want included in your ceremony?
· What message would you like to leave your family, friends and community?
· I am a lover of photos! I can help you to select your favourite photos and share some of those memories which could be included in your Life Celebration as well.
· Together, your eulogy can be prepared just as you wish- it can be your final message to those who attend your funeral when you have died- written in your words, from the heart. You might feel empowered and supported enough to write this yourself, or I can do this for you from our discussions.
How can we make this happen?
Meeting and talking and sharing information- which I will record.
An initial meeting will allow us to get to know each other and begin the process. At this time, I will gather your main ideas and wishes for your ceremony. If you feel this covers enough to help those who will arrange your funeral, then that will be it. If you would like to add details to your story, and consider things in more depth, follow up meetings can be added.
Cost- $50 per hour for first meeting. Follow-up meetings $30 per hour.
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I have experience at preparing eulogies. My siblings and I wrote eulogies for our parents, but had others present them at their funeral services. If you want your family to not worry about the emotion of saying a eulogy or life story at your funeral, I can help you choose someone to do that- or I can take on that role myself.