Kevin Costner gives a tremendous eulogy here of Whitney Houston. What makes it work so well? It’s personal, grounded in wonderful, heartfelt stories, and it’s centered on a simple theme.

Costner starts the speech recounting his youth in the Baptist Church, an experience he held in common with Whitney. His eye for detail is impressive; notice the way he captures the feeling of sitting in a pew and chatting with friends, or drinking communion wine.

He moves on from his youth, and then describes the story of casting Whitney in “The Bodygaurd”. He narrates stories regarding her doubts about her talent. He ends the speech by evoking Whitney’s acceptance in front of the divine, a beautiful coda to his earlier stories about the Baptist Church. Ultimately, the speech is a simple call to action; a message to all who would follow in Whitney’s steps that respecting their talent is a paramount virtue. Beautiful.

It takes time to write a speech this thoughtful. It requires sitting with your emotions, your desires, and writing many drafts. But it is possible, so get at it! You know you’ve got it in you.

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