Any thoughts and advice please. I haven’t read aloud since school days which was filled with dread as I have a stammer. I am determined to speak at my beloved Pete’s funeral next week even if I don’t project to the attendees. I can’t help thinking it’s all rather voyeuristic but I must get over myself, it’s not about me’ literally
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I think you’re very brave 
Practice, out loud, in front of the mirror, in front of a friend.
Look up, dont catch anyone’s eye, practice out loud again.
Talk slowly, and breathe.
I’m sure it will be a challenge, so have a back up plan, someone who can step in if you really can’t do it in the end but I’m sure you will xx
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Thank you so much, for your support and advice. I practiced in front of Nigel the cat earlier. I am writing one for Pete to be placed’ with him and another for the attendees
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Hi. I read at my husbands funeral on the 18th November. I practiced in front of family and friends. The poem i read was about love and was for stephen. I kept looking at stephen throughout the reading and my children and close family who had heard it before. The children also got up and spoke. I also had someone in the audience who would read it for me if i gave them a sign.
It wasnt necessary and i found that i just got the strength from somewhere. I truly feel that if you really want to do it, for whatever reason, you will do it. If you cry, stutter, whatever, that is totally fine. You are amazing to give it a go.
Good luck x
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No one expects an award winning speech, no one cares if you stammer, no one will be judging you, they will be rooting for you for speaking at all and their sympathy and love will shine through.
You will be fine. You will be you. No one could ask for more.
Much love.
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Dear @Pooka1968
I’m so sorry I only just read this…I dip in and out of reading and posting on here
I hope it went okay for you.
I read at my husband’s funeral too.
I practiced it by reading it to him when I used to visit him in his funeral home, which I did everyday until the day before.
That helped me enormously … On the day I just looked at his coffin , and read it to him… Again.
I still often get it out and read it (over 2 years for me now)
Love hugs and strength to you
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