When a loved one passes away, it can leave us reeling with grief and seeking a way to heal. One way to ease the pain is through the power of poetry. When it comes to a son's funeral, there are several touching funeral poems that can help families commemorate their loss and celebrate their son's life.
[Rudyard Kipling's "If"]
When we lost our son, Rudyard Kipling's "If" was one of the first poems we turned to. It's a powerful poem that emphasizes the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. "If" tells the story of a father who clings to the hope that his child will always be with him, no matter the hardship.
"If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
[Valerie Capasso's "Never Unsaid"]
Valerie Capasso's "Never Unsaid" is a beautiful poem that celebrates the joy a son brings to a family. It's a reminder that despite the pain of losing a child, the love they leave behind is timeless and enduring.
"I never want this to go unsaid,
So here in this poem, is for it to be said."
[Langston Hughes's "Mother to Son"]
Langston Hughes's "Mother to Son" is a poem that encapsulates the profound love between a mother and her child. It's a poem that focuses on the importance of staying strong and moving forward, even in the face of loss.
"Well, son, I’ll tell you: Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.
It’s had tacks in it, and splinters, and boards torn up,
And places with no carpet on the floor—
“And all the time
I’m a-climbin’ on, and reachin’ landin’s,
And turnin’ corners,
And sometimes goin’ in the dark
Where there ain’t been no light."
[Anonymous's "Our Bond"]
When losing a son, it's important to find meaning in the pain. Anonymous's "Our Bond" provides a sense of unity and unity amidst the pain. It's a poem that focuses on the enduring bond between a mother and her son, no matter the circumstances.
"I hope these words can portray,
How incredibly proud of you I am today,
When I found out I was carrying you,
I was elated with so many dreams coming true,
The day you were born and I saw your face,
Nothing in this world can ever replace,
That feeling when I first held you to me,
Kissing your head and watching as you see,
The closeness I felt on that first day,
Has became stronger daily in every way,
I am so proud of you son for how you’ve grown,
The decisions you’ve made, the strength you’ve shown,
Your nature is kind, loving and rare,
When you want into a room all eyes begin to stare,
They’re drawn to your smile and genuine vibe,
Always know how much I love you no matter what,
Our bond and love never broken, it can never be cut."
[Larry Howland's "On My First Son"]
Larry Howland's "On My First Son" is a touching poem that expresses a father's wish for his son to remain safe and under his protection. It's a poem that focuses on the love and pride a father has for his son.
"I sometimes wish you were still small,
Not yet so big and strong and tall.
For when I think of yesterday,
I close my eyes and see you play.
I often miss that little boy.
Who pestered me to buy a toy.
Who filled my days with pure delight.
From early morn to late at night.
We watch our children change and grow,
As seasons come then quickly go.
But our God has a perfect plan,
To shape a boy into a man.
Today my son I’m proud of you,
For all the thoughtful things you do.
I’ll love you till my days are done.
And I’m so grateful you’re my son."
[David Wojahn's "On the Due Date of a Son Never Born"]
If there's a poem that captures the heartache and longing for a child who has passed away before birth, it's David Wojahn's "On the Due Date of a Son Never Born." This poem is a beautiful way to honor the child who was never able to be born and a way to acknowledge the pain and loss that comes with such a tragedy.
"Echinacea, bee balm, aster. trumpet vine
I watch your mother bend to prune,
water sluicing silver from the hose—
another morning you will never see.", there are many poems that can help families cope with the loss of a son. Whether it's through expressing love, remembering cherished memories, or finding unity amidst pain, these poems provide a way to honor the son and bring comfort to the heart. Whether you're looking for a funeral reading or a way to express sympathy, consider sharing a poem that resonates with your family and offers the comfort you need during this difficult time.