Walker, Jeanette

I took the decision to become a celebrant in my retirement and completed my training in 2009 several years after joining the Humanist Society. It is a decision I wish I had taken years ago as it is such satisfying and rewarding work and I've met some great characters along the way!

I have always been a people person -both by nature and vocation so becoming a celebrant and being in contact with so many diverse people has been a real joy to me!

My career as a teacher of young people with learning or behavioural difficulties involved working closely with families in some very stressful and challenging situations and I was constantly struck by the courage and dignity many of them displayed

Since becoming a celebrant I have been priviliged to work with families where I have seen that same courage and dignity and I've found it very humbling. Being given the opportunity in the role of a celebrant to help others celebrate their humanity as they face life's various milestones is such a privilege and one I don't take lightly!

So what does humanism mean to me ? I think it means that we should make the most of the one precious life we have by living as best and as fully as we can ,respecting and supporting each other and the world we live in.

My work as a celebrant has strengthened my view that every single life is unique and worthy and has touched other lives along the way .As a result each life whether short or long should be cause for a celebration!

A humanist funeral should reflect the life and personality of the deceased in a meaningful way.It should celebrate the deceased's  life honestly and without pretence so that it is fitting and ,meaningful.I feel very privileged to be a humanist funeral  celebrant and find it very humbling to be with families at their time of loss.

i try hard to offer them comfort and support and practical help in organising a fitting tribute to their loved one . During  my home visits I've been very moved by hearing the personal "stories" of lives much loved by those left behind .I am constantly inspired by the courage and dignity shown by many of the bereaved and never fail to be impressed by many of the anecdotes they recall .There are many unsung heroes out there and many extraordinary lives !

As a result of these visits the ceremony unfolds and is always very personal and fitting to the deceased. Some of the choices of poetry and music have been amazing but are totally relevant to the families concerned because of the special meaning they have for them.

During ceremonies I have shared quite a few poems and songs but my favourite poem at the moment is

"Miss Me But Let Me Go" by Amy Louise Kerswell

When I come to the end of the road

And the sun has set for me

I want no rites in a gloom filled room

Why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little but not too long,

And not with your head bowed low,

Remember the love that once we shared

Miss me but let me go .

For this is a journey we all must take,

And each must go alone,

It's all a part of a greater plan

A step on the way to home.

When you are lonelyand sick at heart,

Go to the friends we know,

And bury your sorrow in doing good deeds

Miss me but let me go . 

I really appreciate the feedback I get from families like"My dad would have loved that!" or"You really brought her to life,today !!!"

It encourages me to continue in this inspiring work!

I always hope that the mourners will leave the ceremony with a sense of peace and some great memories the deceased !