Death is an inevitable part of life, a topic that often brings discomfort and unease. However, amidst the apprehension, there is an emerging trend that encourages individuals to confront their mortality and write their own obituaries. This act goes beyond mere self-reflection; it holds immense value in the realm of genealogy, preserving personal narratives, and leaving behind a lasting legacy. In this blog post, we will delve into the significance of writing your own obituary and explore how it contributes to genealogical research.
I chose this topic after reading an obituary recently that had vitriol and hatred towards opposing political party views that were palpable just from the words written. It started as an amazing journey through a grandmother’s life, through the war she served in and the accomplishments of her family, and ended with just hate. I do not even know how to express it or describe it as it really just made me sad that it was with this poor woman’s demise that her child chose this moment to use her venom to go after and political agenda and besmirch the memory of her own father at the same time.
I think it is important to make our own decisions on how we would like to leave this world and the mark we leave upon it so I have 5 talking points to cover to show the importance of writing your own obituary.
- Personal Narrative and Self-Reflection: Writing your own obituary offers a unique opportunity for self-reflection and introspection. It allows you to carefully consider and articulate the essence of your life story, your achievements, and the values you hold dear. By penning your own obituary, you become the author of your narrative, ensuring that your voice and perspective are accurately portrayed when the time comes. It serves as a reminder to live a purposeful life and align your actions with your values, empowering you to leave behind a legacy that resonates with who you truly are.
- Preserving Your Family’s History: Genealogy, the study of family history and lineage, has become increasingly popular in recent years. Writing your own obituary is a powerful way to contribute to this invaluable pursuit. By documenting your life’s milestones, relationships, and significant events, you provide future generations with a precious glimpse into their ancestral past. Your obituary becomes a treasure trove of information for genealogists and family historians, serving as a foundation for uncovering connections, tracing family trees, and preserving the collective memory of your family.
- Accuracy and Authenticity: When it falls upon others to write an obituary, there is a risk of factual inaccuracies or important details being overlooked. By writing your own obituary, you can ensure the accuracy and authenticity of the information presented. You know your life story better than anyone else, and by taking the initiative to craft your obituary, you can avoid potential errors or omissions that might arise from someone else’s perspective. Your self-written obituary becomes a reliable historical document, a true reflection of your life’s journey and accomplishments.
- Encouraging Meaningful Conversations: Writing your own obituary opens up conversations with loved ones about life, legacy, and the values you hold dear. It prompts discussions about your wishes, funeral arrangements, and how you envision being remembered. These conversations allow for greater clarity and understanding among family members, easing their burden when the time comes to finalize the details. By initiating these discussions, you create an opportunity to impart your wisdom, share your hopes and dreams, and reinforce the bonds that connect generations.
- Celebrating Life and Leaving a Lasting Legacy: An obituary is not just a somber announcement of one’s passing; it is also a celebration of a life well-lived. Writing your own obituary empowers you to reflect upon the joys, triumphs, and lessons learned throughout your journey. It allows you to highlight your passions, hobbies, and the legacy you hope to leave behind. By sharing your unique story, you inspire and influence future generations, leaving a lasting legacy that extends far beyond your time on earth.
We all have a story to tell and who knows that story better than yourself? I would take time to reflect on those things that shaped you and guided you throughout your life. I would also encourage everyone to plan ahead for their final arrangements. The cost has become so high that it does truly become a burden on those left behind. Make the arrangements ahead of time, have a draft obituary ready that can be quickly filled in with a final date and any additional information that should be added, and have a life insurance policy that is enough to at least cover those costs so your loved ones are not struggling to pay for it.
Writing your own obituary holds profound significance both personally and genealogically. It allows you to shape your narrative, leaving behind an accurate reflection of your life’s journey. Embracing this practice contributes to the field of genealogy, ensuring that future generations have access to a rich tapestry of family history. So, dare to confront your mortality, embrace your story, and pen your own obit