The Funeral and Memorial Information Council (FAMIC) launched Have the Talk of a Lifetime to facilitate crucial conversations within families about what truly matters to them and how to honor a person's life story in a meaningful manner. Today, memorialization goes beyond tradition to reflect an individual's values, interests, and experiences. This approach can be transformative, offering healing and solace. Have the Talk of a Lifetime provides families with practical guidance and resources to engage in discussions about their most cherished memories and how they wish to be remembered for generations to come.
Talk of A Lifetime
Talk Of A Lifetime
Why is having this discussion important?
Deep down, many of us seek reassurance that we've made a meaningful impact in the world. Having the Talk of a Lifetime can indeed make a lifetime of difference. It reconnects us with our loved ones and allows us to discover new facets of their lives. Engaging in these conversations can be deeply enriching and fulfilling. Learning about their cherished memories, significant people, favorite places, and values can strengthen our bonds with those closest to us. This dialogue also serves as a way to express gratitude and affirm the profound impact our loved ones have had on our lives.
Who should engage in this conversation?
You can have the Talk of a Lifetime with anyone special to you – whether it's your parents, children, grandparents, aunts and uncles, spouse, or a close friend. It's a conversation that can happen wherever you both feel most at ease – whether over a meal, at home, on a walk, during a family gathering, or while enjoying a game together. This meaningful conversation can take place at any point in time, not necessarily only towards the end of life.
How do you initiate the conversation?
Sometimes, using a tangible reminder like a photo album, souvenir, or keepsake can be an excellent way to initiate a meaningful conversation. Reflecting on significant places, such as the church where your loved one married or a favorite park, can also help create a comfortable atmosphere for sharing personal stories.
You might begin by recalling a cherished vacation memory, discussing a valuable piece of advice, mentioning a song that evokes memories, or explaining why certain aspects of their life are unforgettable to you. Whether you choose to jot down notes during or after your discussion or prefer to record the conversation, select the approach that feels most natural and appropriate for your setting.
Some questions you could ask to start the talk are:
- What is your proudest achievement?
- What was the one piece of advice you received from your parents or grandparents that you never forgot?
- Tell me about the most memorable summer you had growing up.
- Tell me about your favorite teacher; what did you learn from him or her?
- If you could spend a day doing anything you like, what would it be?
- Who has been your greatest inspiration?
