As a recent graduate of the UKSOC Civil Celebrant Training
I’m moved to write about one of the most exhausting, exhilarating, fulfilling
experiences that I’ve had in a long while. There’s fair warning when you sign
up for any of the programmes or learning options that there is a lot of work to
be done outside of the classroom setting. For those choosing the Group Training
or Personal Tuition Training Options as opposed to the Distance Learning Option
there are also several reminders of the need to complete the pre-course
homework before arrival. I did do that, although I didn’t start the work early
enough and, as I’ve taught for many years myself, I felt guilty at my late
delivery - via email about 9pm the night before my course began. In addition to
the full days of discussion, presentation, observation, and positive critique
during each day I also completed another eight hours (at least) of work between
each mid to late afternoon finish and next day early morning start. I’m writing
this on the train on my way home having not slept much the night after the completion
of the course. I think my body has forgotten how to shut down for more than
four hours.
It was worth it though. I’m still fizzing with the energy
the course generated in me.
The role play interviews simulating discussion with bereaved
family members left me feeling that I not only knew them but also the person
who had died. The three funeral ceremonies and one wedding ceremony that I planned and delivered moved me to
tears and filled me with joy for the lives of the people I was representing and
celebrating. The deaths and marriage were not real as such (although not
surprisingly there were connections to actual people) but they were real to me.
If you’d told me before I began that I’d feel I had to do a dash to the shops
to buy something particular and relevant to wear to a ceremony I was presenting
or that I’d dance along, not only to the wedding ceremony music, but also to a
piece that was especially significant in the life of someone who had died very
young; well you know what I’m going to say.
The course includes bespoke practical help too. I have a
particular problem, I talk too fast, especially when I feel passionate or
excited about something, but in three days the suggestions I was given enabled
me to improve my pace in a way I’ve been trying to do for the last 20 years.
The IT support and encouragement has led to this, my first ever blog and
there’s more on the way, I promise.
Celebrants are person focused and provide a bespoke service.
The ceremonies – funerals, weddings, vow renewals, namings - we prepare
and deliver are life centred; all about and for the particular person or people
concerned. Bespoke celebrant training, as delivered by UKSOC, is person focused
and life centred; all about and for the particular person involved.
Nothing more needs to be said . . . .
Hi Gayle
ReplyDeleteWe are so pleased that you both enjoyed and engaged in your training - your authenticity,attitude, enthusiasm and your apparent writing skills can be unleashed on your Cornish neighbours. Good luck!
Thank You James
ReplyDeleteA moving blog! In so many ways! I had no doubt you would be incredible doing this! Your commitment and hard work is an inspiration! So, from me too, good luck!
ReplyDeleteAs supportive as ever Ali, thanks so much.
ReplyDelete