Top 10 Funeral Readings for Difficult Individuals

When someone dies who was a complicated or difficult person, it can be challenging to choose funeral readings that strike the right tone. Honesty, compassion, and balance are essential in such situations.

The goal is not to sugarcoat the past but to focus on shared experiences, lessons learned, and the complexity of human relationships. Here are some thoughtful readings that can help navigate this delicate task.

1. "The Human Condition" by Hannah Arendt

We are all capable of greatness and failure, kindness and cruelty, love and neglect. What defines us is not perfection but the capacity to change and grow.

This reading acknowledges the complexity of human nature and the fact that we all contain contradictions. It’s a fitting choice for honouring someone who had both strengths and flaws.

2. "For What It’s Worth" by F. Scott Fitzgerald

It’s never too late to be whoever you want to be. I hope you live a life you’re proud of, and if you find that you’re not, I hope you have the strength to start over.

A reflection on change and redemption, this reading highlights the importance of growth and second chances. It is a thoughtful tribute to someone who may have struggled but continued to evolve. Your funeral director is always ready to help you choose the funeral readings and funeral songs you need for your service. 

3. "The Journey" by Mary Oliver

One day you finally knew what you had to do, and began, though the voices around you kept shouting their bad advice.

This reading is about finding one's path and making peace with personal struggles. It’s a strong metaphor for resilience and self-discovery.

4. "Gone From My Sight" by Henry Van Dyke

I am standing upon the seashore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the ocean.

A metaphorical piece describing death as a journey, this passage is comforting for its gentle and non-judgmental tone, making it suitable for someone with a complex legacy. This reading can be paired with funeral music. 

5. "Desiderata" by Max Ehrmann

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.

This reading encourages acceptance and inner peace. It’s a calming choice that helps focus on the universal challenges and imperfections of life.

6. "On Kindness" by Naomi Shihab Nye

Before you know what kindness really is, you must lose things, feel the future dissolve in a moment like salt in a weakened broth.

A poignant reminder of how struggles can bring out both the best and worst in people. It’s a compassionate reflection on finding kindness amid life’s challenges.

7. "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less travelled by, and that has made all the difference.

This reading reflects on choices and individuality, acknowledging the unique paths people take in life—sometimes for better, sometimes for worse.

8. "Success" by Ralph Waldo Emerson

To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children… this is to have succeeded.

This reading is about redefining success and finding meaning in life’s small victories. It’s an uplifting and inclusive tribute.

9. "Footprints in the Sand" (Traditional Poem)

During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.

A hopeful and comforting reading that speaks of resilience and unseen support during life’s hardest moments.

10. "A Reflection on Life" (Anonymous)

Life is not about being perfect or flawless. It is about finding beauty in the moments, however fleeting, and leaving something meaningful behind.

This anonymous reflection emphasises the transient nature of life and the importance of learning from every experience.