Intimations of Immortality

This extract from a longer ode by William Wordsworth is appropriate for funerals and memorial services because it acknowledges that although nothing can bring back a loved one who has died, we can be comforted by cherishing memories of our relationship with them during their life.

What though the radiance which was once so bright
Be now forever taken from my sight,
Though nothing can bring back the hour
Of splendour in the grass, of glory in the flower;
We will grieve not, rather find
Strength in what remains behind.

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