Losing a loved one is never easy, and when that loved one is a strong woman who has touched many lives, the grief can feel especially profound. During such a difficult time, finding the right words to express your feelings can be a challenge. Funeral poems offer a way to honor her memory, celebrate her strength, and provide comfort to those who are mourning. These poems can be incorporated into the funeral service, memorial cards, or even shared privately among family and friends. Selecting the perfect poem is a deeply personal process, and it's important to choose one that truly reflects the spirit and essence of the woman you are remembering. Let's explore some funeral poems that capture the essence of a strong woman, offering solace and celebrating her remarkable life.

Why Choose a Poem for a Funeral?

Guys, you might be wondering, why even bother with a poem at a funeral? Well, poems have this amazing power to say things that we often struggle to express in our own words. They can capture emotions, memories, and the essence of a person in a way that feels both beautiful and profound.

• Expressing Emotions: Funerals are, let's face it, super emotional. Poems give us a structured way to channel those feelings, whether it's sadness, love, or even a sense of peace.
• Honoring the Individual: A carefully chosen poem can really highlight the unique qualities of the person who's passed. For a strong woman, a poem can celebrate her resilience, her spirit, and her impact on the world.
• Providing Comfort: Hearing a poem that resonates can be incredibly comforting for those who are grieving. It's like a little beacon of light in a dark time, reminding us of the beauty and strength that still exists.
• Creating a Moment of Reflection: Poems encourage us to pause, reflect, and remember. They create a space for shared memories and a collective honoring of the person who is no longer with us.
• Adding a Personal Touch: In a ceremony that can sometimes feel formal, a poem adds a personal and heartfelt touch, making the service more meaningful and memorable.

What Makes a Woman "Strong"?

Before diving into specific poems, let's think about what we mean by a "strong woman." It's not just about physical strength, but rather a combination of qualities that make her resilient, inspiring, and impactful. A strong woman often embodies:

• Resilience: The ability to bounce back from adversity, to face challenges head-on, and to never give up, no matter how tough things get. This is a cornerstone of strength, showcasing an unwavering spirit.
• Courage: The willingness to stand up for what she believes in, to speak her mind, and to take risks, even when it's scary. Courage isn't the absence of fear, but the triumph over it, and strong women often display this in abundance.
• Compassion: A deep empathy for others, a desire to help those in need, and a kindness that extends to everyone she meets. This compassion is a powerful force that can heal and uplift those around her.
• Independence: The ability to be self-sufficient, to make her own decisions, and to live life on her own terms. This independence often comes with a sense of self-assuredness and confidence.
• Wisdom: A deep understanding of the world, an ability to learn from her experiences, and a willingness to share her knowledge with others. This wisdom is often gained through years of navigating life's challenges and triumphs.
• Grace: Carrying herself with dignity, poise, and kindness, even in difficult situations. Grace is a quiet strength that shines through in her interactions with others.

When selecting a poem, consider which of these qualities best reflect the strong woman you are honoring. This will help you choose a piece that truly captures her essence and celebrates her unique contributions.

Poems That Celebrate Strength and Resilience

Okay, let's get into some actual poems that you might find fitting. Remember, the best poem is one that resonates with you and feels like it truly captures the spirit of the person you're honoring.

"She is Gone" by David Harkins

This poem, while seemingly about loss, subtly celebrates the lasting impact of a strong woman. It acknowledges the pain of her absence but emphasizes that her memory and influence will endure.

You can shed tears that she is gone, Or you can smile because she has lived.

You can close your eyes and pray that she’ll come back, Or you can open your eyes and see all she’s left.

Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her, Or you can be full of the love you shared.

You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday, Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.

You can remember her and only that she’s gone, Or you can cherish her memory and let it live on.

You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back, Or you can do what she’d want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

"Phenomenal Woman" by Maya Angelou

If you're looking for a poem that embodies confidence, power, and undeniable presence, "Phenomenal Woman" is a fantastic choice. Maya Angelou's words celebrate the inner strength and self-assuredness that defines a remarkable woman.

Pretty women wonder where my secret lies. I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size But when I start to tell them, They think I’m telling lies. I say, It’s in the reach of my arms, The span of my hips, The stride of my step, The curl of my lips. I’m a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me.

I walk into a room Just as cool as you please, And to a man, The fellows stand or Fall down on their knees. Then they swarm around me, A hive of honey bees. I say, It’s the fire in my eyes, And the flash of my teeth, The swing in my waist, And the joy in my feet. I’m a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me.

Men themselves have wondered What they see in me. They try so much But they can’t touch My inner mystery. When I try to show them, They say they still can’t see. I say, It’s in the arch of my back, The sun of my smile, The ride of my breasts, The grace of my style. I’m a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me.

Now you understand Just why my head’s not bowed. I don’t shout or jump about Or have to talk real loud. When you see me passing It ought to make you proud. I say, It’s in the click of my heels, The bend of my hair, the palm of my hand, The need for my care. ’Cause I’m a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me.

"When I am Dead, My Dearest" by Christina Rossetti

This poem speaks to the idea of being remembered for one's true self, rather than being overly mourned. It can be a comforting choice for a strong woman who valued independence and didn't want to be a burden to others.

When I am dead, my dearest, Sing no sad songs for me; Plant thou no roses at my head, Nor shady cypress tree: Be the green grass above me With showers and dewdrops wet; And if thou wilt, remember, And if thou wilt, forget.

I shall not see the shadows, I shall not feel the rain; I shall not hear the nightingale Sing on as if in pain: And dreaming through the twilight That doth not rise nor set, Haply I may remember, And haply may forget.

"Do not stand at my grave and weep" by Mary Elizabeth Frye

This poem offers a message of hope and continuity, suggesting that the deceased lives on in the world around us. It can be particularly comforting for those who believe in an afterlife or the enduring power of the human spirit.

Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not there, I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glint on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning hush, I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there. I did not die.

"The Measure of a Man" by an unknown author

While titled "The Measure of a Man," this poem's themes of love, giving, and impact resonate deeply with the qualities of a strong woman. It focuses on what truly matters in life: how we treat others and the legacy we leave behind.

Not – How did he die? But – How did he live? Not – What did he gain? But – What did he give? These are the units to measure the worth Of a man, as a man, regardless of birth. Not – What was his station? But – Had he a heart? And how did he play his God-given part? Was he ever ready with a word of good cheer, To bring back a smile, to banish a tear? Not – What was his church? Nor – What was his creed? But – Had he befriended those really in need? Not – What did the sketch in the newspaper say? But – How many were sorry when he passed away? These are the units to measure the worth Of any man, as a man, regardless of birth.

Tips for Selecting the Right Poem

Choosing a funeral poem can feel daunting, but here are a few tips to guide you:

• Consider Her Personality: What were her values? What kind of language did she use? Choose a poem that reflects her unique spirit.
• Think About the Message: What do you want to convey about her life? Do you want to focus on her strength, her love, or her impact on the world?
• Read Aloud: See how the poem sounds when spoken. Does it flow well? Does it evoke the emotions you're hoping to express?
• Don't Be Afraid to Edit: If a poem is almost perfect but needs a few tweaks, feel free to adapt it to better fit your needs. However, do give credit to the author if you are planning to share it.
• Trust Your Gut: Ultimately, the best poem is the one that resonates with you and feels like a genuine expression of your love and respect.

Where to Find More Poems

If none of these poems feel quite right, there are plenty of other resources available:

• Poetry Websites: Websites like Poetry Foundation and Academy of American Poets offer vast collections of poems on various themes.
• Books of Poetry: Explore anthologies of funeral poems or poems about grief and loss.
• Online Forums: Many online communities are dedicated to sharing and discussing funeral poems. These can be great resources for finding lesser-known works.
• Ask for Recommendations: Talk to friends, family, or a funeral director for suggestions.

Conclusion

Selecting funeral poems for a strong woman is a beautiful way to honor her life and legacy. By choosing words that celebrate her strength, resilience, and impact, you can create a meaningful tribute that provides comfort and inspiration to those who are grieving. Remember, the most important thing is to choose a poem that resonates with you and feels like a genuine expression of your love and respect. Take your time, explore different options, and trust your instincts. The perfect poem is out there, waiting to be discovered.