![10. To say the funeral was a joyous occasion is indeed an odd thing to say. However, after the sadness had washed away, you made sure that we basked in the memories and the joy from [his/her] life. The funeral was a day of celebration to celebrate a life that was so full and fruitful, and one that touched us all. Thank you for sharing that …. Final fantasy xiv subscription](/img/512x512/1527457953716.webp)
Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience, and planning a funeral can feel overwhelming. One of the important aspects of a funeral is the obituary, which serves as a...A graveside service is usually short, as the purpose is to commit the body to the ground. A clergyman may say prayers, while attendees may place flowers on the grave or shovel some dirt on the coffin. Graveside funeral etiquette requires a somber tone, and attendees should be reserved and attentive. When people think about paying their ...They saw people gathering in a clearing near a cabin some distance down the hillside. They had come for a funeral. A little boy had drowned, and his parents had sent for the preacher to “say words.” The minister, who rode a circuit on horseback, would rarely visit these isolated families. ... The scriptures say, “the life of all flesh is ...There are many things a person can say at a funeral, including “Sorry for your loss,” states Everplans.com. Regardless of what is said, it is vital to be sincere and sensitive.If you’re unsure of what to say when you first reach out, these are a good place to start. “I am so sorry for your loss”. “You and your loved one are in my thoughts and prayers”. “This is so sad to hear, I’m thinking of you and the family”. “If you want to talk at any time, I’m here”. “Shocked and saddened by this news ...Greek Orthodox Pre-Service Rituals. When someone in the church has died, the family will: Notify the priest of the local parish and a funeral home. Coordinate all prayer service and funeral details with the priest. Communicate its wishes to the funeral home once the details are set.5. Acknowledge the Loss and Offer Comfort: It's crucial to acknowledge the pain of losing Nan, as well as offer words of solace to family and friends. Speak about the importance of cherishing memories and the significance of offering support and love to one another during this difficult time. To offer an example, let's look at a brief passage ...A funeral eulogy of between 500 and 1000 written words will take from around three and a half to seven and a half minutes to speak. Some funeral venues allocate a specific period of time for a funeral. The funeral director should be able to advise you, if you ask how long a eulogy should last, as part of the order of service.However, if an individual engages you in conversation, let them speak first. The ability to listen to what the grieving person is saying could be significant in ...Quotes. “May flight of Angels sing thee to thy rest.”. Shakespeare. “Life every man holds dear; but the dear man holds honor far more precious dear than life.”. Shakespeare. “God is our refuge and our strength.”. Psalm 46:1. “A man who won’t die for something is not fit to live.”. Martin Luther King, Jr. Condolences for the loss of a father. “Your dad was so proud of you and all of your accomplishments.”. “I’ve seen what an impact your father had on your life. You’re in my thoughts.”. “Your dad was such an amazing person and role model. I’m so sorry.”. “I’ve always looked up to your father. I know this must be difficult.”. My Jewish Learning’s daily online minyan gives mourners and others an opportunity to say Kaddish in community and learn from leading rabbis. Sephardic Pronounced: seh-FAR-dik, Origin: Hebrew, describing Jews descending from the Jews of Spain. ... Hebrew, seven days of mourning after a funeral, when the mourner stays at home and observes ...Feb 8, 2024 · This article will guide you through what to say at your brother's funeral, including an engaging introduction, detailed content, a realistic example, and an engaging outro. Your brother's funeral is a time to come together with family and friends to mourn his loss and celebrate his life. Apr 20, 2022 · With heartfelt sympathy,”. “Thinking of you and wishing you moments of peace and comfort as you remember a friend who was so close to you.”. “Our family is keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.”. “Holding you close in my thoughts and hoping you are doing OK.”. always my sister forever my angel. You fly into my dreams and when I am asleep. I feel your wings brush against my face wiping away. the tears I shed since I can no longer hold. you in my arms but in my heart. You earned those wings dear sister. and you will always be my angel eternal. ~.When it comes to planning a funeral, one of the most important considerations is the cost. This is especially true when considering a cremation funeral, as it has become an increas...A funeral has an added emotional component, so practice will help you deliver your selection more effectively. The first time you read your eulogy or reading, it can be difficult to say the words without getting teary-eyed. Practicing can help you get through your reading without breaking down. It can make sure you don’t speak too fast or too ...When it comes to planning a funeral, one of the most important considerations is the cost. This is especially true when considering a cremation funeral, as it has become an increas...While there are many to choose from, funeral psalms are more specific. We’ve gathered a few of them for you below. Common Psalms for a Funeral. You can use any of the psalms below for funeral readings in Catholic, Jewish, Protestant, or Anglican faiths. 1. Psalm 16 – The Presence of the Lord. Psalm 16 begins with devotion to the Lord.BBC News. Detectives believe they have identified all 35 bodies recovered at a funeral directors in Hull, which is at the centre of a police investigation. Humberside …Sep 13, 2017 · These inspirational funeral and memorial quotes could be a help when you are writing a eulogy or epitaph, or looking for a quotation to include on an order of service sheet. Whether you want something that captures the experience of loss, or reflects on the meaning of life, these funeral quotes could be the right way to say goodbye. 1. Amen. Prayer to the Lamb. O Lord, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, we thank you for taking away the sins of the world. Have mercy on us today, and mercy on our loved one who has passed from this life into the next. Holy Lamb, who sits at the right hand of the Father, hear our prayer. What To Say To Express Sympathy. The goal of expressing sympathy is to offer your compassion and concern for the bereaved. You can say how much you will miss the person who died or you can share a happy memory. While it might be hard to know what to say to someone who lost a loved one, the most important thing to communicate is that you care ... In many ways, just saying, “I’m so sorry for your loss” can go a long way in communicating care and presence. Maybe try sharing your favorite memory of their loved ones. For me, one of the unexpected comforts during the grieving process was gathering with family members and reminiscing and telling stories.For this we say thank you, and goodbye. Dearest [Wife, Mum, Nan, Cousin, Aunt etc] and loyal friend.”. That you will be missed more than words can say; that you will be remembered and cherished, and that love will never end. To be with us throughout our lives, until we meet again.Emily Post once said, "Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others." When you use those words as your guide, the rules of funeral etiquette become easier to understand. We find it interesting that Franklin D. Roosevelt, who served as the 32nd president of the United States, summed up etiquette in six words: “Be sincere, be ...The Greens say it is unlikely Mr Ferguson was not aware of the contents of the briefing note before the funeral went ahead and have questioned why a review into Mr …Of course, some families rely on the officiant or minister to speak about their loved one at a funeral. Ask yourself these questions as you decide whether to write and present the eulogy. ... He would nod his head and say something like "To each their own." He meant it. He was a role model to me. I am sad that we won't get to have our front ... Be a good listener. Let friends and family talk about their loved one’s life and death. If they don’t want to talk about it, don’t pressure them. Focus on the survivor’s needs. Refer to the deceased by name and acknowledge the person’s life. Avoid using cliched phrases such as “he or she is in a better place.”. 2. Wear something revealing or loud. Some funerals and memorials are more modern nowadays in terms of expected attire. In fact, some request that you wear whatever you wish or follow a specific theme.What to say at a funeral. 1. I’m sorry for your loss. Simple but effective, this is a traditional sentiment that is versatile for any bereavement situation. It is appropriate no matter your relationship to the deceased and their family. 2. I’m thinking about you.Consider incorporating the following phrases when deciding what to say at a funeral: “I’m so sorry about your loss. [The deceased] was a good person and they’ll be very missed.”. “Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss.”. “ [The deceased] was a wonderful person and I’ll miss them very much.”. “My name is [your ...Planning a funeral can be a trying time both emotionally and financially. There are many details to consider, and it’s normal for your mind to want to focus elsewhere while you’re ...1. Express Your Sympathy. When speaking at a wake, the first thing to express is your sympathy for the deceased's family and loved ones. You might start by saying something like, "I'm so sorry for your loss" or "My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time."DENVER (AP) — The owner of a funeral home who is accused of keeping a woman’s corpse in the back of a hearse for over a year, along with stashing over 30 …10. "Learn to live in acceptance of the loss, not in spite of the loss." 11. "She’s just made a change of address." 12. "Grief has no expiration date." 13. "It’s okay to have bad days because it reminds you how much you love them, and the good days remind you they’re right there with you." 14.Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience, and planning a funeral can be overwhelming. One important aspect of the funeral service is the sermon, which provides comf...What to Say at A Celebration of Life Service ... Express your sympathy in your own words, whatever feels right to you. Kind words about the loved one who has ...1. Address the family and friends warmly. 2. Share a brief memory or anecdote. 3. Offer specific help and support. 4. Keep it simple, sincere, and from the heart. Coping with the loss of a loved one is never easy, and attending a wake funeral can be an emotionally taxing experience.Rest in peace. May you be blessed by God and greeted by angels in heaven. Go in peace – you’ve earned your sleep. May God’s blessing welcome you with open arms at the gates of heaven. To a life well spent – RIP. “There is only one happiness in this life, to love and be loved” – George Sand. “Life has to end.Emily Post once said, "Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others." When you use those words as your guide, the rules of funeral etiquette become easier to understand. We find it interesting that Franklin D. Roosevelt, who served as the 32nd president of the United States, summed up etiquette in six words: “Be sincere, be ...Funeral acknowledgements may go into more detail describing the deceased with words like “father,” “grandad,” “great-grandad” or “partner.”1. Address the family and friends warmly. 2. Share a brief memory or anecdote. 3. Offer specific help and support. 4. Keep it simple, sincere, and from the heart. Coping with the loss of a loved one is never easy, and attending a wake funeral can be an emotionally taxing experience.A funeral speech that shares fond memories and celebrates the entire life of a loved one can be remembered as the best eulogy ever, leaving a lasting impression on those who hear it. B. Final thoughts on honoring the memory of a loved one. Honoring the memory of a close friend or family member through a funeral speech is a significant ...Rather, stick to expressions, such as these: “I am sorry for your loss.”. “He or she was a wonderful person and will be missed.”. “You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.”. While funerals and memorial services are unsettling events, keep in mind that what counts the most is your presence and consideration.Preach the gospel. Celebrate what Jesus Christ did by His death, burial and resurrection. Remind everyone of the hope that is ours in Jesus Christ and Him alone. Preach that “neither is there ...Patrick William Kern. The Patrick William Kern video is a classic memorial slideshow example. Created with a simple video editing tool, his family created a work of art that showcased different aspects of Patrick’s life and memories. Paired with meaningful text quotes and animations, this is a stunning video that would make a great addition ...Dec 12, 2019 · Most funeral services end with a repast, or an informal gathering for guests. This is the best time to talk to the family and express your condolences. Before the service or during the funeral procession is not the right time to interact with family or friends. If you do have something to say to the family, make sure you keep it short. 1. Address the family and friends warmly. 2. Share a brief memory or anecdote. 3. Offer specific help and support. 4. Keep it simple, sincere, and from the heart. Coping with the loss of a loved one is never easy, and attending a wake funeral can be an emotionally taxing experience.What to say at a funeral . Much of the advice given above can be said when you hear the news of the death, as well while attending the funeral or memorial. When attending a funeral or memorial, approach the family member or friend and share your condolences using one of the suggested phrases above. Explain your relationship to the …Mar 24, 2023 · Table of Contents. What to Say Before a Funeral. The most important thing to do before a funeral is to acknowledge the loss of whoever it is and reach out to the family or friends that are grieving. That may feel awkward as it can feel like you’re reminding them of their loss. Short Funeral Speech For Friend Example 5. "As we gather here to say our goodbyes to [friend's name], let us forever remember the joyous moments, laughter, and kindness [he/she] shared with each of us. Gone too soon, [he/she] will forever remain in our hearts and memories, leaving an indelible mark on our lives.Learn how to express your condolences and support for other mourners at a funeral with these 25 words of comfort. Find out what to say at a funeral based on your relationship, the situation, and the tone of the event. See more8 Tips for Giving a Funeral Thank You Speech. It’s worth noting that the nature of a funeral thank you speech will vary depending on your exact goals and who you want to thank. That said, these tips will help you feel more confident in your eulogy. Remember them if you ever want to use a funeral speech as an opportunity to express …The Greens say it is unlikely Mr Ferguson was not aware of the contents of the briefing note before the funeral went ahead and have questioned why a review into Mr …In the days leading up to the funeral, Mulroney will lie in state at the Sir John A. Macdonald Building on Wellington Street in Ottawa on March 19 from 12:30 p.m. to 6 …“My thoughts are with you” and “My condolences to you and your family” are always safe bets. Often sharing fond memories of the deceased will help those ...Here are a few tips for writing a eulogy for your mother: Describe the way she showed her love for you. Celebrate the small ways she turned your house into a home. Highlight the impact she made throughout the community. Explain the smells, sounds, and feelings you felt when arriving home.A funeral has an added emotional component, so practice will help you deliver your selection more effectively. The first time you read your eulogy or reading, it can be difficult to say the words without getting teary-eyed. Practicing can help you get through your reading without breaking down. It can make sure you don’t speak too fast or too ...Respect the memory of the deceased. Ensure that the message captures the essence of the person you are commemorating. The closing words should reflect their personality, passions, triumphs, and even their quirks, that make them unique and special to those who knew them intimately. 2. Acknowledge the bereaved.Sample Day 1. Start this Plan. When someone dies, it’s often hard to find words to say to comfort the family, even when you know the deceased was a believer. This reading plan offers some advice for comforting and encouraging things to say at a Christian funeral. We would like to thank Time of Grace for providing this plan.What to Say to the Family at a Wake. It can be difficult to know how to offer condolences to a grieving family. The overall mood of a wake will, to a certain extent, guide your choices. Some wakes are almost indistinguishable from viewings or visitations. They are often held in funeral homes and the family might be in a receiving line.Feb 6, 2024 · You might say something like, "My name is John, and I was fortunate to call Michael my friend for 25 years." 2. Share personal stories and memories. A funeral toast should be both heartfelt and unique to the person being remembered. Other themes found in New Testament funeral readings include the importance of love and compassion, the promise of eternal life, and the idea that death is not the end, but rather a new beginning. John 14:1-6 - "Jesus Comforts His Disciples". Romans 8:31-39 - "God's Everlasting Love".May 24, 2018 ... 7 Things to Not Say at a Funeral · “They're an angel now.” No, they're not. · “I know how you feel.” · “They look so good.” · “...The celebration of life event is often held in a different location than the funeral home, such as a park, church, home, or other venue. This allows for a more relaxed atmosphere where people can come and go as they please. The tone at a celebration of life event is often more bright and interactive, with people sharing memories, laughing, and ...Learn how to comfort a grieving friend or family member with words of love and support at a funeral. Find condolences, encouragements, and tips for writing a …Table of Contents. What to Say Before a Funeral. The most important thing to do before a funeral is to acknowledge the loss of whoever it is and reach out to the …Quotes. “May flight of Angels sing thee to thy rest.”. Shakespeare. “Life every man holds dear; but the dear man holds honor far more precious dear than life.”. Shakespeare. “God is our refuge and our strength.”. Psalm 46:1. “A man who won’t die for something is not fit to live.”. Martin Luther King, Jr.Feb 24, 2024 · Fond Memories. 4. Farewell Message. The loss of a work colleague is a unique experience, one that penetrates the boundaries of work life and personal loss. The passing of a coworker may leave you feeling challenged, emotional, and uncertain about how to pay tribute to their life in a meaningful and appropriate manner. 2. Wear something revealing or loud. Some funerals and memorials are more modern nowadays in terms of expected attire. In fact, some request that you wear whatever you wish or follow a specific theme.There are many things a person can say at a funeral, including “Sorry for your loss,” states Everplans.com. Regardless of what is said, it is vital to be sincere and sensitive.2. Wear something revealing or loud. Some funerals and memorials are more modern nowadays in terms of expected attire. In fact, some request that you wear whatever you wish or follow a specific theme.On Sept. 8, Queen Elizabeth II died at the age of 96. Hours later, the government announced a 10-day period of national mourning, culminating in what may be the largest funeral the...In the days leading up to the funeral, Mulroney will lie in state at the Sir John A. Macdonald Building on Wellington Street in Ottawa on March 19 from 12:30 p.m. to 6 …May 22, 2019 · Express your condolences to the family members. It can be as simple as the timeless “My condolences,” or even the traditional “I’m sorry for your loss.”. If you know the family, say what is on your heart and let them know you are there for them and hurting with them. If you do not know the family, introduce yourself and let them know ... Residents in a suburban Philadelphia township were told to shelter in place Saturday morning following "confirmed shootings," police said. The shootings happened …11. "After a Funeral" from the Lutheran Book of Prayer. This rather lengthy prayer begins this way: "O God, whose days are without end, and whose mercies cannot be numbered, grant that the solemn services of this day may make us deeply sensible of the shortness and uncertainty of human life, and of the transitory nature of all earthly things."Discover short eulogy examples to use at a memorial service or a funeral, including tips for writing a great eulogy for a friend, parent, spouse, aunt, cousin, … Listen to what the bereaved person is saying, and match their tone.”. When it’s your turn to speak to the bereaved, she recommends a few tried-and-true words of sympathy: “I’m sorry”. “I’ll be here for you”. “They were a lovely person/they made me feel welcome/they taught me so much” (this lets the bereaved person know that ... Offer your condolences. Let the family know that you’re sorry for their loss, and that you’re here for them if they need anything at all. Introduce yourself to those you don’t know, and share together your memories of the deceased. Remember what to say and what not to say (see above). Be yourself.11. "After a Funeral" from the Lutheran Book of Prayer. This rather lengthy prayer begins this way: "O God, whose days are without end, and whose mercies cannot be numbered, grant that the solemn services of this day may make us deeply sensible of the shortness and uncertainty of human life, and of the transitory nature of all earthly things."Here are a few tips for writing a eulogy for your mother: Describe the way she showed her love for you. Celebrate the small ways she turned your house into a home. Highlight the impact she made throughout the community. Explain the smells, sounds, and feelings you felt when arriving home.Ceremony. The funeral service, or ceremony, is at the heart of a traditional funeral. Attendees gather to hear funeral music, listen to readings from religious or literary works, give eulogies about the departed, and sometimes participate in prayer.; Committal. Most traditional funerals also include a committal service, which is when the body is …When a loved one dies, writing their obituary is one last way that you can pay respect to them. An obituary tells the story of their life and all of the things they did — and accom...Never say “You need to say goodbye” or “Life must go on” at a funeral. Instead, say: “He will always be remembered for his generosity/love for his family…”. Statements like these tend to minimize the grief journey, says Bickerton. “Life will go on but it will look very different for the person grieving as they adjust to their ...Talk about the memories that made you laugh, cry, or simply smile whenever you think about them. This is an excellent way to show others the kind of person your brother was and the impact he had on your life. 2. Highlight your brother's character traits. Every person has unique character traits that set them apart.Discover the Irish funeral prayers, including prayers for vigils, wakes, funeral toasts, blessings, and more. ... Groups say it in sets of five or ten at an Irish funeral. “Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us … Structuring Your Funeral Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide. Creating a well-structured funeral speech can help convey your message clearly and effectively. Here’s a simple guide to help you structure your speech: Opening with Respect: Start your speech by acknowledging the solemnity of the occasion and the shared sense of loss. A respectful ... Speaking at a funeral can be a daunting task, especially if you're unsure of what to say. This blog post will guide you through crafting a heartfelt eulogy and provide a realistic example. We will also introduce you to the Eulogy Assistant software, a valuable tool for helping you create a memorable and touching funeral speech. 1. Plan your speechMay 3, 2019 ... Have You Ever Been Asked To Speak At A Funeral? 6 Tips on Eulogizing Loved Ones for Grieving Friends and Family · 1. Write Down Your Thoughts.
5. Picture Your Audience. In this step, you’ll start taking the things you wrote in your journaling session and forming them into a eulogy. When you give any speech, including a eulogy, one of the most important factors to consider is your audience. Try to picture who will be in attendance at your friend’s funeral.. Battista's hole in the wall restaurant las vegas
Wishing you strength and peace during this hard time. With heartfelt condolences,. [Your Name]”. Funeral Flowers. Sending funeral flowers is a traditional way ...What To Say To Express Sympathy. The goal of expressing sympathy is to offer your compassion and concern for the bereaved. You can say how much you will miss the person who died or you can share a happy memory. While it might be hard to know what to say to someone who lost a loved one, the most important thing to communicate is that you care ...Learn how to express your condolences, share your grief, and comfort others at a funeral. Find general and specific condolences, eulogies, and examples of …Dec 13, 2019 · Irish Catholic funerals will incorporate the basic structure of a traditional Catholic funeral service including Catholic funeral hymns, Bible readings, Catholic funeral readings, prayers, eulogies, and communion. Traditional Irish songs, blessings, and poetry might also be included, as can more contemporary Catholic funeral music. A sample for a funeral resolution can be found online on websites, such as Church Funeral Resolution and ObituariesHelp.org. They also provide useful information on writing funeral...Military Funeral Flag Speeches. It is common for the flag presentation to be a part of the funeral service. Each veteran has the option to have at least two military members conduct funeral honors. This honoring ceremony includes both the flag presentation and the playing of “Taps.”1. Address the family and friends warmly. 2. Share a brief memory or anecdote. 3. Offer specific help and support. 4. Keep it simple, sincere, and from the heart. Coping with the loss of a loved one is never easy, and attending a wake funeral can be an emotionally taxing experience.Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult time, and planning a funeral can be overwhelming. One important aspect of the funeral process is creating an obituary to honor and rem...What they needed in that moment was the hope they had in the gospel. 5. Leave attendees with a sense of hope through the gospel. Multitudes live without hope in Christ. But at a funeral you have a unique opportunity to set forth the one hope that lifts despairing people—Jesus Christ as revealed in the gospel.What Not To Say: “Look On The Bright Side.”. 13. What Not To Say: “God Has A Plan.”. 14. What Not To Say: “You Need To Move On.”. 15. What Not To Say: “Death Is A Natural Part Of Life.”. Conclusion About What Not To Say At A Funeral. Frequently Asked Questions About What Not To Say At A Funeral.Military Funeral Flag Speeches. It is common for the flag presentation to be a part of the funeral service. Each veteran has the option to have at least two military members conduct funeral honors. This honoring ceremony includes both the flag presentation and the playing of “Taps.”Whether you’re planning a funeral service or attending one, there are many things to consider — not the least of which is what exactly to say. If you are struggling to find the right words for a eulogy, a memorial reading, or a condolence card, let the following funeral poems help you.Some of these poems are elegant memorials to those who have died, …Feb 13, 2024 · Explain how you came to know them and why you want to speak at their funeral. This helps to create a connection with the audience and sets the tone for the rest of the eulogy. 2. Provide insight into your friend's personality and values. Tell stories that illustrate your friend's character traits, values, and experiences. If you’re unsure of what to say when you first reach out, these are a good place to start. “I am so sorry for your loss”. “You and your loved one are in my thoughts and prayers”. “This is so sad to hear, I’m thinking of you and the family”. “If you want to talk at any time, I’m here”. “Shocked and saddened by this news ...7. Offer words of comfort. 8. End with a message of love. Example 1 - Funeral Speech for a Beloved Mother. Example 2 - Eulogy for a Cherished Mother. Example 3 - Eulogy for an Admired Mother. Eulogy Assistant: Tenderly Honoring Spiritual Connections. Losing a mother can be an overwhelmingly painful experience.Whether you’re planning a funeral service or attending one, there are many things to consider — not the least of which is what exactly to say. If you are struggling to find the right words for a eulogy, a memorial reading, or a condolence card, let the following funeral poems help you.Some of these poems are elegant memorials to those who have died, …2. Make a Toast. If you are having a celebration of life event or memorial party, instead of reading a eulogy for your dad, you can make a toast in his honor. One way to elevate your toast is to use your dad’s …Obituaries.com and Archives.com feature free obituary searches online. Obituaries.com is a completely free resource, while Archives.com offers a short-term free trial before requir...Planning a funeral can be a trying time both emotionally and financially. There are many details to consider, and it’s normal for your mind to want to focus elsewhere while you’re ...Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience, and planning a funeral can be overwhelming. One important aspect of the funeral service is the sermon, which provides comf...In many ways, just saying, “I’m so sorry for your loss” can go a long way in communicating care and presence. Maybe try sharing your favorite memory of their loved ones. For me, one of the unexpected comforts during the grieving process was gathering with family members and reminiscing and telling stories..