What will they say about you?

On a few occasions I’ve engaged in the exercise of writing my own obituary or epitath. The exercise was prompted in seminars or workshops, and on one occasion as part of my orientation as a hospice chaplain. Kierkegaard said “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.” That’s helpful to keep in mind. Which reminds me of the story about a priest, a rabbi, and a minister…

A Catholic priest, a Protestant minister, and a rabbi are discussing what they would like people to say after they die and their bodies are on display in open caskets.

Priest: “I would like someone to say ‘He was a righteous man, an honest man, and very generous.’”

Minister: “I would like someone to say ‘He was very kind and fair, and he was very good to his parishioners.’”

Rabbi: “I want someone to say ‘LOOK! HE’S MOVING!!’”

So, what do you want them to day about you?