The Importance of Honoring Life in Obituaries

The Legacy We Leave Behind

James Acheson lived a life celebrated for his devotion to his family and his infectious positivity towards everyone he met. He left behind memories cherished by those who knew him and a lasting legacy of kindness, love, and commitment. As an online legal journal editor and expert in the law, I have come across countless obituaries. I have seen firsthand the impact these memoriams have on families and communities, both in honoring the lives of those we lost and in uniting those left behind in grief. In this opinion editorial, I will discuss how families can write obituaries that honor life, celebrate memories, and provide comfort to those who need it most.

The Power of Words

Obituaries are an opportunity to capture the essence of a person, to tell their story, and to provide closure for those left behind. It is crucial to choose words that honor the deceased and recognize their contributions to the world. As we see in James Acheson’s obituary, the use of words such as “devoted,” “cherished,” “unparalleled,” and “loyal” paints a picture of a life well-lived and a soul deeply loved. In contrast, a list of accomplishments or accolades may fail to capture the essence of the person.

Sharing Memories

One of the most important tasks of an obituary is to share memories and insights into the life of the deceased. James Acheson’s obituary provides a beautiful example of this, sharing that he loved to hunt, hike, swim, boat, and game with his family. These details provide a glimpse into the everyday moments that made James who he was, and show the ways he impacted the lives of those closest to him. Sharing memories can also be a source of comfort for those who are grieving, helping them remember the laughter, joy, and love that they shared with the deceased.

Addressing the Cause of Death

Many families face the difficult question of how to address the cause of death in an obituary. While it may be tempting to avoid or downplay the cause of death, it is important to acknowledge it openly and honestly. Legacy’s Linnea Crowther suggests that discussing the cause of death helps to “humanize the incidence of death and normalize what is often considered too taboo to share”. By discussing the cause of death, we can also raise awareness for important causes, such as mental health, drug addiction, or other health concerns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, writing an obituary is an opportunity to honor the life lived, celebrate memories, and provide comfort to those who need it most. By choosing words that honor the person and their legacy, sharing memories, and addressing the cause of death, families can create a lasting tribute that honors life and provides closure. James Acheson touched many lives with his kindness, sincerity, and love. Let us follow his example, and write obituaries that do justice to the lives of those we have lost.

Originally Post From https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/azdailysun/name/james-acheson-obituary?id=55543073

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