If there is ever a time for proper manners, it would be during a funeral or memorial service. The dinner or gathering afterward is the time of celebration and remembrance, but the service itself requires a respectful presence.
The following are some rules to follow for funerals –
1. Clothing. It’s not necessary to only wear black clothing, but you should dress respectfully. Always have your items clean, pressed and neat.
2. Arrival. Try to arrive on time. If you’re a few minutes late, enter quietly and take a seat in the very back, as to not disrupt the service.
3. Cell Phone. Do not take photos during the service. Be sure to set your phone on silent mode and fight the urge to even glance at it until after you leave.
4. Children. Never discourage a child from wanting to attend a service. It’s important for kids to learn that death is a part of life. Just make sure to remove them if they are young and noisy.
5. Leaving. Stay at the service until the casket has been carried out, or until the service is completely over. That shows respect to the close family and friends.
Funerals are a time for remembrance and respect for a life. Although tears are shed, it’s also time to honor someone. Always remember to act with class and dignity so that respect is shown to all.
