So sorry to hear of your uncle's passing, Rob. I see there's a strong family genetic heritage...the eyes! very similar to yours. And I know of the awkwardness, at times, pain and then the feeling of honor to be asked to give the eulogy. I have always worried that maybe I didn't fully capture the essence of the person and the life they led. But then, could a speech ever really fully do that? And for the record, you'd make an awesome Secretary of State but because our paths crossed as they did, I'm glad you are who you are!
Ahh Rob… so sorry to hear about your Uncle. My memories of you being there for us during Tom’s death warms my heart. Not only as the loving support from my favourite brother-in-law, but also taking on the unenviable task of writing and giving Tom’s eulogy. We had already witnessed your insight and compassion with the other family losses. Thanks for answering yes to the question… Do you want to give eulogy?
So sorry to hear of your Uncles passing. I have experienced hearing your eulogies, (of course) and am heartened to hear how much you prepare for them. I have always felt your compassion through your words, and know how sincere you are during a eulogy. (Somehow I wish I could have had your expertise when we experienced our loss this past Spring. Although we did gather, it was different, and perhaps a more formal time was what I needed at that time, although it was not for everyone). I appreciate you very much, thank you.
On another note, I know your family will be comforted by your love and words ,and seeing your uncle’s face is beautiful. I see the love in his eyes, take care..
Another inspiring lecture! Introduction to Eulogy. I always learn something from your offerings. I appreciated that you included the photo of your uncle. It felt right to see his face. Love to all the family. Jan
Sincerest and most heartfelt condolences on you and your family’s loss. I vey much appreciated your eulogy experience.
I always found solace in Jewish law when it comes to crafting a eulogy. The Talmud emphasizes two key requirements of a eulogy: expression of truth about the departed, and emphasis on his/her praiseworthy qualities. Although lying about the deceased is strictly forbidden, it is entirely appropriate to enhance the departed’s positive attributes (Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah 344:1). And if you can accomplish these objectives while stirring the audience’s memories of the departed and willingness to openly mourn, all the better.
Sounds like yours was the Jewish trifecta, even if inadvertent. Again, sincerest condolences.
Hi Robert. It's been over two decades since we last met. I ordinarily don't read epistles about death or eulogies. I appreciate your sincerity, compassion, and forthrightness. Your comments did not put me into a funereal state of mind. Actually, it gave me pause to take a step or two back and not just assess—but breathe and consider the value of living and contributing to the community I live in. Thank you.
First of condolences to your cousin and her family. This was a hard but beautiful read. "Can't we go back to being kids"?! Oh how many adults ponder with that question. Life seems so long, yet also so short, so dynamic! Great word by the way! There is no proper way to deal with grief, just as there no true way to know the response when a call like the one you got comes through. Thank you for this share and thank you for the life changing conversation on the plane. As a young man I cannot stress how your words continue to inspire me. Cheers and condolences once again.
So sorry to hear of your uncle's passing, Rob. I see there's a strong family genetic heritage...the eyes! very similar to yours. And I know of the awkwardness, at times, pain and then the feeling of honor to be asked to give the eulogy. I have always worried that maybe I didn't fully capture the essence of the person and the life they led. But then, could a speech ever really fully do that? And for the record, you'd make an awesome Secretary of State but because our paths crossed as they did, I'm glad you are who you are!
L
Ahh Rob… so sorry to hear about your Uncle. My memories of you being there for us during Tom’s death warms my heart. Not only as the loving support from my favourite brother-in-law, but also taking on the unenviable task of writing and giving Tom’s eulogy. We had already witnessed your insight and compassion with the other family losses. Thanks for answering yes to the question… Do you want to give eulogy?
Hugs
Ditto!
I love you, Joni! Can't wait to see you in April.
Hi Rob,
So sorry to hear of your Uncles passing. I have experienced hearing your eulogies, (of course) and am heartened to hear how much you prepare for them. I have always felt your compassion through your words, and know how sincere you are during a eulogy. (Somehow I wish I could have had your expertise when we experienced our loss this past Spring. Although we did gather, it was different, and perhaps a more formal time was what I needed at that time, although it was not for everyone). I appreciate you very much, thank you.
On another note, I know your family will be comforted by your love and words ,and seeing your uncle’s face is beautiful. I see the love in his eyes, take care..
Thanks, Noni! I can't wait to see you for Debbie's birthday in April. xoxoxo
Another inspiring lecture! Introduction to Eulogy. I always learn something from your offerings. I appreciated that you included the photo of your uncle. It felt right to see his face. Love to all the family. Jan
Thank you, Tanti! Looking forward to seeing you and Andy soon. Hugs and kisses!
Rob,
Sincerest and most heartfelt condolences on you and your family’s loss. I vey much appreciated your eulogy experience.
I always found solace in Jewish law when it comes to crafting a eulogy. The Talmud emphasizes two key requirements of a eulogy: expression of truth about the departed, and emphasis on his/her praiseworthy qualities. Although lying about the deceased is strictly forbidden, it is entirely appropriate to enhance the departed’s positive attributes (Shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah 344:1). And if you can accomplish these objectives while stirring the audience’s memories of the departed and willingness to openly mourn, all the better.
Sounds like yours was the Jewish trifecta, even if inadvertent. Again, sincerest condolences.
You are a gentleman and a scholar, Claude. I hope to see you soon.
Hi Robert. It's been over two decades since we last met. I ordinarily don't read epistles about death or eulogies. I appreciate your sincerity, compassion, and forthrightness. Your comments did not put me into a funereal state of mind. Actually, it gave me pause to take a step or two back and not just assess—but breathe and consider the value of living and contributing to the community I live in. Thank you.
Thanks, James! I appreciate your reaching out. I hope you and your family are well.
Beautiful
Thanks, John! Come back to Stanford soon!
First of condolences to your cousin and her family. This was a hard but beautiful read. "Can't we go back to being kids"?! Oh how many adults ponder with that question. Life seems so long, yet also so short, so dynamic! Great word by the way! There is no proper way to deal with grief, just as there no true way to know the response when a call like the one you got comes through. Thank you for this share and thank you for the life changing conversation on the plane. As a young man I cannot stress how your words continue to inspire me. Cheers and condolences once again.
Thank you, Daniel! I appreciate your kind words and hope we can reconnect in the future.