What You Can Say About Death And Dying
by Gene Griessman, Ph.D.
Here is a famous quotation from Shakespeare that can be used in a speech or in an article or book that you write, or as a eulogy for someone brave who has died, perhaps at a funeral of a police officer, a firefighter, or someone from the military.
It also addresses two different topics–courage and death–by reminding us that death is inevitable. The profound existential question for all of us is not whether we die, but how we die, and how we lived before we die.
Here is the great quote from Shakespeare:
“Cowards die many times before their deaths. The valiant never taste of death but once.
Of all the wonders that I yet have heard,
It seems to me most strange that men should fear, seeing that death, a necessary end will come when it will come.” –“Julius Caesar”
Here’s a tip for Toastmasters, or for anyone giving a speech. You can use this short bit of poetry effectively to begin your presentation. Simply pause, after being introduced, look at your audience, and begin: “Cowards die many times….”
Or you can use the first two sentences of this quotation to conclude your presentation by saying something like, “I would like to leave you with this thought: ‘Cowards die many times…death but once.”
“This is a book to cherish and share.”—Bill Marriott, CEO, Marriott International, Inc.
“Not only does Griessman give us Lincoln quotes, but he also weaves each one into a little jewel of an essay on that particular subject.” Wayne C. Temple, renowned Lincoln scholar, Illinois State Archives
A stirring, inspirational treasury of quotations from our greatest and most admired president, the book offers rich material for interpretation, reflection, and spiritual guidance.
You will also enjoy Lincoln Speaks To Leaders by Gene Griessman and Pat Williams.
Don’t leave yet. You’ve found a goldmine. Check out additional power phrases and unusual quotations.
