‘For Katrinas Sundial’ is poem by Henry van Dyke, also known as ‘Time Is’. Henry van Dyke was born in America on 10th November1852, and passed away on 10th April 1933. He was an American poet and clergyman from Pennsylvania, wrote the poem which was published in 1904. As it is a loving homage to a loved one who has died away, this poem has become popular during funerals. Even amid grief, the poem celebrates life’s beauty and joy.

The deceased Katrina and her friends converse as they discuss her sundial in the poem, which emerges as a conversation between them. The sundial commemorates Katrina’s life, with each hour representing a memory and a recollection of all the hours they spent together. The poem also addresses those still alive, expressing the hope that the friends would be able to draw comfort and tranquillity from their memories of the deceased.

To remember the deceased, these funeral poems for dad become a crucial part of funerals and memorial services. It serves as a motivational wake-up call about how fleeting life may be and how precious it can be.

For Katrinas Sundial

Princess Diana’s burial in 1997 was one of the most well-known occasions when “For Katrinas Sundial” was played. The recitation of this poem was an appropriate homage to the late princess because it discussed the transient aspect of life and how even the most venerable and powerful individuals are subject to ageing.

‘For Katrinas Sundial’ is an eternal reminder of the value of family and the need to treasure every second spent with them. It provides solace during difficult times and pays exquisite homage to those who have gone on before us.

Time is too slow for those who wait,
Too swift for those who fear,
Too long for those who grieve,
Too short for those who rejoice,
But for those who love, time is
Eternity

For more poem inspiration visit the Save Funeral Costs blog of funeral poems.