One of the overlooked benefits of Toastmasters is that it can help us during some of the hardest times, for example to give a eulogy (praise of someone recently deceased).

On the Toastmasters International website, there is an article with tips and techniques to speak from the heart when giving a eulogy.

“Speaking at a funeral or memorial service is probably one of the most difficult speaking assignments imaginable. It’s one thing to speak coherently in front an audience; it’s another to keep from falling apart emotionally when giving a tribute to a deceased family member, friend or coworker.

But speaking at such an important event is a gift. By communicating what’s in your heart to people who need help to deal with grief, you fulfill a collective need for comfort.”

Here is a link to some inspiring eulogies that were given for the recent passing of Steve Jobs, founder of Apple.