The Kindest Gift: Recording Your Farewell Wishes for Those You Love
Talking about our own farewell isn’t easy. For many, it feels like a subject best left untouched, a conversation for "another day." But as a Celebrant, I can tell you that one of the kindest, most compassionate things you can do for your family and friends is to record your farewell wishes now, while you’re here to guide them.
When the time comes for loved ones to organise your farewell, they will be navigating a time of deep emotion and grief. The last thing anyone wants during those tender days is to be left guessing: Would you want a burial or cremation? Did you prefer a simple gathering or a formal service? What music would you have chosen? These seemingly small decisions can feel overwhelming for those left behind.
Having your wishes recorded is not just a practical task, it is an act of care.
While legal documents like wills and prepaid funeral plans are essential, they often lack the personal detail needed to create a meaningful farewell.
This is where a Farewell Wish List becomes invaluable. It addresses questions that legal papers don't touch upon:
Do you have a pre-paid funeral plan in place?
Would you prefer burial, cremation, or donating your body to science?
Is your farewell to be nature-based, spiritual, religious, or something else?
Do you have a particular venue in mind that holds meaning to you?
What elements are important to you in a service—if you wish to have one?
Are there letters you'd like to write for loved ones to open after your passing?
Do you have favourite music you'd like included?
Would you like photographs displayed—or perhaps you’d prefer not?
As a Celebrant, I offer my services to gently guide you through these decisions. I am neutral in these discussions—this is your story, your wishes. My role is to listen, to ask the right questions, and to ensure your answers are recorded with care and clarity.
I’ve created a Farewell Wish List specifically designed to make this process easier. It’s a gentle tool that prompts the important questions and provides space for your thoughts and preferences. It’s not a legal document but a heartfelt guide for your loved ones.
While this conversation may feel difficult, it’s a conversation best had when there is no urgency, no pressure, and no grief clouding the air. It’s a beautiful, empowering moment where you get to shape your own farewell and lift a heavy burden from those you care about.
I invite you to reach out if you’d like my assistance in creating your Farewell Wish List. Together, we can ensure your wishes are honoured in the way you envision, and your family and friends are gifted with peace of mind during one of life’s hardest moments.
