We don't need to 'create' sadness at a funeral.

Funeral's are sad enough.

When I started in the funeral industry I wondered if I may be a little too 'cheery'.

I'm quite an optimistic, glass-half-full kind of person and I thought this may be detrimental.

The reality is quite the opposite.

If we're going to celebrate someone's life we need to create the fun. The sadness comes automatically but the joy requires energy and attention. We must smile, often try to have a laugh, tell stories that remind each other of the funny and entertaining times, the magic moments. This all requires someone who's prepared to be positive, regardless of what's going on around them.

Many times I've stood next to someone delivering their tribute, crying, mopping themselves with tissues and my job is to put my arm around them, smile at their guests and wait until they're ready to continue. 

If we're going to do a great job for the guest of honour- the show must go on.