Your loved one has just died and you want to give your last special gift to the person. You were just chosen to give the eulogy, but you do not know how and when to start.

To help you with your problem, guidelines were devised to help you write a funeral speech.

The first thing you should know about a funeral speech is that it is truly an honor for you to be chosen as the person who will give the eulogy. You will be the person who will help people remember the deceased through the words you include in your speech. You will also have your time to recall the many great memories you have had with the departed. Whatever you write in your speech will reflect the life of the person who passed away, so it is best if you work on the speech really hard.

To write a good funeral speech,

First, you have to take your time and try not to rush. Recollect your memories and pick only those you want to share. Ask the opinion of other people. Relatives, friends, and colleagues also have had their memories with the deceased. You can talk to them and see if you arrive at a brilliant idea.

Second, make your speech clear and brief. It will be difficult for you to talk in front of an audience especially if you are under strain. A five-minute speech will be enough, given the tension of public speaking and the overwhelming sentiments of the occasion.

Third, pick a theme for the whole of the deceased person's life. You do not have to summarize all of the happenings in the life of your dead loved one. Choose headlines over milestones. Choose a theme that is recognizable and appreciable. You may want to share the good things he or she has done to people; his or her values and how they were of influence to you; or the funniest moments you've had with the deceased.

Fourth, honesty is always best. Be honest with your words and speak whole heartedly. Avoid giving out negative comments since you know that the funeral isn't the right occasion for such. Mention only feelings that are positive and significant.

Fifth, you do not have to worry about showing emotions while delivering your speech. The people at the funeral know that you are under distress and will find nothing wrong when you get overwhelmed by emotions. You may ask someone else to read your speech for you.

That's it -- use those tips and you should be well on you way to writing a great, impacting funeral speech. Just remember to always speak from the heart. Speaking from the heart and celebrating the life the person lived is the most honest and worthwhile eulogy experience you can share. I wish you my very best!