How to choose a non-religious reading
Did they specify a reading in their funeral wishes?
It’s more common nowadays for people to specify what they want for their funeral. Some people document their wishes in their Will or a prepaid funeral plan, whilst others may express if verbally. Knowing what a person would like is a good starting point for choosing a reading and can help to ease some of the burden you may feel.
Find inspiration in films, books and music
Films, books and music can provide great inspiration for readings, and there are no limits to what you can choose. They work particularly well for anyone who had a favourite film, author or musician, and can create a moment to celebrate a loved one’s life. If you are choosing something more unusual, such as song lyrics, read them in full beforehand to ensure they set the right tone.
Choose a poem about a favourite place
Readings about a person’s favourite place, or somewhere that holds particular significance to them, can evoke powerful feelings or memories at a funeral. It could be a reading about a particular place that was important to the deceased, or about the country they were from. Alternatively, you could choose a location that brings back memories of holiday or reflects their interests, such as a beach or nature-inspired poem.
Recite a well-known poem
There’s a reason why certain poems come up again and again at funerals, and there are some readings that feel meaningful no matter how many times you hear them. A well-known reading or song can also feel comforting and remind you that you’re not alone. Some of the more well-known funeral readings include;
- Do Not Stand At My Grave And Weep by Mary Elizabeth Frye
- She Is Gone (He Is Gone) by David Harkins
- Let Me Go by Christina Rossetti
- Funeral Blues by W.H Auden
- Death Is Nothing At All by Henry Scott Holland
Write some original words
Sometimes the only person who knows what to say is you. Whilst writing something to read at the funeral may feel challenging, it may help you work through difficult emotions. Give yourself plenty of time to write something, and ask a friend or family member to run through it if you need reassurance. If it feels too difficult to read at the funeral you could consider asking someone to read it on your behalf.
