21/06/2026
This morning, I was honoured to lead a special Fatherās Day service at Bishopbriggs Crematorium; a heartfelt moment of reflection to remember and honour our fathers and father figures.
For me personally, being a celebrant is the most purposeful, powerful, and rewarding role I could ever undertake. Yet, itās not without its challenges. Like everyone else ā every family I meet, every individual touched by the loss of a loved one ā I sometimes need to dig a little deeper to find inspiration in difficult moments.
My dad is my greatest inspiration. Though heās no longer with me, I feel his pride and presence, which brings me great comfort.
Today, I debated whether to read the poem I wrote about my dad at the service. In the end, I chose to share it not only as a moment of honour but also because it remains a constant source of inspiration in my work as a funeral celebrant. Although Iāve shared this poem before, today was the first time I read it publicly to an audience.
Thank you to everyone who attended todayās service and for the kind words afterwards. My gratitude also goes to the Westerleigh Group for providing a safe space for us to gather, reflect, and remember; to Catrina Murphy for organising and managing the event; and to Valerie McNeil for her support and assistance today. What a fabulous team!
My poem is titled From Your Son.
From Your Son
by David Somerville
You left one morning, skies still grey,
An ordinary moment, a whisper of day.
The world spun on, yet chaos blew through,
A nightmare unfurling, a heart torn in two.
In a flash, life shifted; what once was is lost,
Fates twisted by chance, at a terrible cost.
As time trudged onward, shadows crept near,
Grief settled in like a burdensome fear.
I found myself teetering, a tightrope of pain,
But a circle of love kept me anchored again.
Your warm embrace was a soothing balm,
In the tempest of sorrow, you brought quiet calm.
A reminder to cherish each laugh, every tear,
Tomorrow is uncertain and the future's unclear.
So, I carry the lessons, both tender and stark,
Holding tightly to memories, lighting the dark.
Iāve watched over mum, the bright light at home,
Your girl, now my world, together we roam.
A bond that runs deeper than words could convey,
In honouring you, it's love that leads the way.
Where I once felt helpless, now I rise through the pain,
Helping others find solace is like a soft, gentle rain.
I carry your voice, your warmth in my heart,
Your spirit is alive in every act, every part.
I hope you see me, your pride shining bright,
Through struggles and triumphs, I strive to do right.
Youāve always been with me, my cheer from above,
My creator, my hero, and the man that I love.
