Before Their Story Becomes a Eulogy
Discover the wisdom that comes from truly listening to the people we love before it's too late.
There Are Some Lessons That Do Not Arrive Until We Lose Someone We Love
There are some lessons that do not arrive until we lose someone we love. I was reminded of that at my Great Aunt Joyce's funeral.
As family and friends gathered to celebrate her life, stories began to unfold. Stories of kindness, resilience, quiet generosity, and moments that many of us had never heard before. As I listened, I realized I was not only hearing memories of her life. I was also discovering how much of her story I had never known.
How often do we do that?
We wait until someone's funeral or celebration of life to discover who they truly were. We learn about their greatest adventures, their hardest seasons, the lives they quietly impacted, and the lessons they carried through life. By then, all we can do is listen.
What if we listened sooner?
Every person we meet has a story worth hearing. Behind every title, every first impression, and every ordinary conversation is a lifetime of experiences that shaped who they are. When we take the time to listen, we do not just honor someone else's life. We grow through it. We gain perspective. We become more compassionate. We learn resilience from someone else's challenges and gratitude from someone else's victories.
The next time you are sitting with a parent, grandparent, friend, or neighbor, ask one more question. Stay at the table a little longer. Invite them to tell you about the moments that changed them, the dreams they chased, the obstacles they overcame, or the people they loved most.
Do not wait until someone else's memories become your only way of knowing them.
At Aunt Joyce's funeral, a poem was read aloud. As I listened, I realized it was not just about remembering someone after they were gone. It was a reminder to celebrate people while they are still here.
Celebrate My Life
Remember me with love and joy,
Let gratitude fill your heart.
Thankful for the time we had,
Gone... yet not apart.
If we measured life in moments,
Not in months or years,
I lived a hundred lifetimes,
Loved by all who hold me dear.
I hope you'll find your smile,
And generously speak my name.
Share stories and my heart,
Your love for life unchanged.
Celebrate the life I lived,
I will be watching from above.
I am always with you,
Sending you my light and love.
Today, choose curiosity over assumption. Ask one more question. Listen a little longer. Celebrate the people in your life now, not someday.
Because the greatest gift we can give someone isn't waiting until they're gone to tell their story. It's taking the time to hear it while they can still tell it.
