[custom_adv] A funeral doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. In fact, more and more people are accepting funerals as celebrations of life rather than somber affairs. Although there are times to be solemn, “humor is a powerful thing,” Cunningham says. [custom_adv] “Getting at the beauty of the deceased by telling a story that’s sweet or brings a smile or laugh is a lovely thing to do. [custom_adv] ” Obviously, you’ll still want to be sensitive and aware of your boundaries, especially if you’re speaking during the service. [custom_adv] For good measure, run your story by a family member beforehand, as you would a wedding toast.In the digital age, where emails and text messages reign, we often forget how far a simple handwritten note can go. [custom_adv] “If you’re at a loss for words, finding a card that seems to say something that matches what you’re feeling is nice,” Cunningham says. Add a personal touch by including a photograph, a memory, or anecdote about the deceased. [custom_adv] Watch out for these things you should never, ever say to a grieving spouse. [custom_adv] There is an intense amount of attention paid to the grieving family in the days immediately following the death, but most of it dwindles a few weeks after the funeral. [custom_adv] “Small gestures over the calendar year indicate to the family that you haven’t forgotten about their loss,” Cunningham says. On the anniversary of the death, send a quick note saying that you are thinking of them and wishing them well. [custom_adv] Your authenticity and sincerity will surely be appreciated. Here’s the exact perfect thing to write in a condolence message.“Flowers are lovely; however, a lot of people get overwhelmed with them,” Cunningham says of this well-intentioned gesture. [custom_adv] Instead of settling for a humdrum flower arrangement that will wither in a few days, opt for a more personalized gift, like a donation to a favorite charity or a tree planted in the name of the deceased. [custom_adv] Doing so will show your support for the grieving family, and they will be thankful that you took the time to pay such a thoughtful tribute. [custom_adv] Doing so will show your support for the grieving family, and they will be thankful that you took the time to pay such a thoughtful tribute. [custom_adv] Doing so will show your support for the grieving family, and they will be thankful that you took the time to pay such a thoughtful tribute. [custom_adv] Doing so will show your support for the grieving family, and they will be thankful that you took the time to pay such a thoughtful tribute. [custom_adv] Doing so will show your support for the grieving family, and they will be thankful that you took the time to pay such a thoughtful tribute. [custom_adv] Doing so will show your support for the grieving family, and they will be thankful that you took the time to pay such a thoughtful tribute.