Choosing an Epitaph

The most difficult time in a person’s life concerns the death of a family member or friend. It may be experienced on numerous occasions during their lifetime but this doesn’t make the loss any easier. However, dealing effectively and positively with grief when a loved one passes away is essential to the recovery process. The most burdensome part of the whole mourning process may be preparing for a funeral service. Once a loved one has been put to rest the final step of the process is choosing a tombstone or grave marker to identify the grave.

The choice of a stone for the grave is also an opportunity to commemorate a loved one with a significant inscription. An epitaph can highlight personality traits or accomplishments in life, and is a meaningful way to give respect to the deceased. Often times people choose to write an epitaph using a piece of prose, a bible verse, or accomplishments. The purpose of an epitaph is to praise the virtues of your deceased loved one.

What to consider while choosing an epitaph

•          Less is more—on a monument or headstone you will be limited to a few lines. It is important to be concise when trying to sum up a person’s life.
•          Choose wisely—the best epitaphs are timeless and not overly sentimental. It is best to choose an epitaph when emotions have settled down, so you can think clearly.
•          Pick a voice—often, someone is speaking in first person (a relative, a friend; the deceased).
•          Who does it speak to—consider whether you want the epitaph to speak directly to someone, maybe a passerby or the loved one him/herself.

Epitaphs allow us to remember our loved ones in a way we never thought possible. A few sentimental words that describe how a person lived his/her life can give us the strength and courage to move on.