24 Funny Eulogy Poems to Celebrate a Life Well-Lived

Table of Contents

Losing a loved one is never easy, but sometimes a touch of humor can help us remember the joy they brought to our lives. Funny eulogy poems offer a unique way to honor someone’s memory, celebrating their quirks, passions, and the laughter they shared with us. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 24 examples of funny eulogy poems across various categories, dive into the art of crafting these special tributes, and provide tips for writing and delivering them effectively.

Funny eulogy poems blend humor with heartfelt memories, creating a celebratory atmosphere that can help alleviate grief and encourage positive remembrance. However, using humor in eulogies requires careful consideration of cultural and religious contexts. It’s crucial to strike a balance between levity and respect to maintain the dignity of the funeral service.

A funny eulogy poem is essentially a lighthearted verse composed to commemorate a deceased person’s life, focusing on their humorous traits, quirks, or memorable moments. These poems often incorporate personal anecdotes and inside jokes, helping to create a more uplifting atmosphere at a funeral or memorial service. The use of humor can facilitate emotional healing and encourage the sharing of positive memories.

When crafting a funny eulogy poem, it’s important to use humor that aligns with the deceased’s personality and sense of humor. Avoid controversial topics or jokes that might offend some attendees, and be sure to incorporate sincere, heartfelt moments alongside the humorous elements. Consider running the poem by close family members to ensure it strikes the right tone.

The appropriateness of funny eulogy poems can vary significantly across different cultural contexts. While some cultures embrace humor as a way to celebrate life and cope with loss, others may find it disrespectful or inappropriate during a funeral service. It’s essential to research the funeral traditions and customs of the deceased’s culture and consider the expectations and sensitivities of the attendees. If you’re unsure, consult with family members or cultural leaders for guidance.

Cultural diversity in funeral ceremonies

Source: anthyesti.com

Choosing the Right Funny Eulogy Poem

When choosing a funny eulogy poem, there are several important factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll need to assess the deceased’s personality and sense of humor. The humor should align with their character, interests, and the type of jokes they enjoyed during their lifetime. Reflect on their favorite types of humor, consider their hobbies and quirks, and think about memorable funny moments or stories involving them.

It’s also crucial to consider your relationship to the audience and their connection to the deceased. The humor should be accessible and appropriate for all attendees, from close family members to casual acquaintances. Avoid overly personal or potentially embarrassing anecdotes, and use humor that can be appreciated by people who knew the deceased to varying degrees.

The overall tone and style of the funeral service should guide your choice of a funny eulogy poem. Consult with the family or funeral organizers about the intended tone of the service, and be prepared to adjust the delivery of the poem based on the mood of the attendees. Ensure the poem aligns with any religious or cultural elements of the service.

The length and complexity of the poem can significantly impact its effectiveness. Aim for a poem that can be comfortably delivered in 2-3 minutes, using simple language and straightforward humor to ensure broad understanding. Consider the emotional state of the audience when determining the poem’s complexity, and practice delivering the poem to gauge its length and impact.

Cultural and religious backgrounds play a significant role in determining the appropriateness of a funny eulogy poem. Research the cultural and religious background of the deceased and attendees, and consult with family members or religious leaders if you’re unsure about the appropriateness of certain content. Be prepared to modify or omit the poem if it’s deemed inappropriate for the context.

Diverse funeral traditions

Source: shopify.com

Types of Funny Eulogy Poems

Funny eulogy poems come in various styles and formats, each offering a unique way to celebrate the life of the deceased. Understanding these categories can help you choose or create a poem that best fits the personality of your loved one and the tone of the service.

Lighthearted Reminiscence

Lighthearted Reminiscence poems focus on fond memories and amusing anecdotes from the deceased’s life. These poems often have a gentle, warm humor that brings smiles rather than outright laughter. They’re excellent for creating a nostalgic atmosphere and helping attendees recall happy times shared with the departed.

Witty Observation

Witty Observation poems use clever wordplay and insightful comments to humorously describe the deceased’s character traits or habits. These poems often point out quirks or idiosyncrasies in a loving, teasing manner. They’re great for capturing the essence of someone’s personality and can be particularly effective if the deceased was known for their wit or sharp observations.

Playful Limericks

Playful Limericks are short, rhythmic poems with a distinctive rhyme scheme (AABBA). They’re known for their humorous content and catchy rhythm, making them easy to remember and enjoyable to hear. Limericks can be an excellent choice for injecting a moment of levity into a eulogy, especially if the deceased enjoyed wordplay or had a playful personality.

Humorous Anecdotes in Verse

Humorous Anecdotes in Verse involve turning funny stories or memorable incidents from the deceased’s life into poetic form. These poems often have a narrative structure, recounting a specific event or series of events that showcase the person’s humor or character. They’re excellent for sharing personal memories and giving attendees a glimpse into the deceased’s life experiences.

Parody and Satire

Parody and Satire poems playfully imitate or exaggerate certain aspects of the deceased’s life or personality. These can include spoofs of famous poems, song lyrics, or even the person’s own catchphrases. While potentially very funny, this category requires careful handling to ensure it doesn’t come across as mocking or disrespectful.

24 Examples of Funny Eulogy Poems

Now, let’s dive into 24 examples of funny eulogy poems across these categories. Remember, these are meant as inspiration and should be adapted to fit the unique personality and life of your loved one.

funny eulogy poem: golfer

1. “The Golf Fanatic’s Farewell”

Our dear old Joe has left this earth,
For heavenly greens of priceless worth.
No more he’ll slice or hook his drive,
Up there, each shot’s a hole-in-one, no jive!

He’s traded in his weathered cap,
For a halo that won’t affect his snap.
Saint Peter’s keeping score, we bet,
As Joe yells “Fore!” at each angel he’s met.

So when you hear thunder from above,
Know it’s just Joe, doing what he loves.
Swinging away at clouds so white,
Golfing through eternity, day and night.

This lighthearted reminiscence poem celebrates the life of an avid golfer, playfully imagining their heavenly golfing adventures. It incorporates specific golfing terms and concepts, using the idea of “heavenly greens” to create a comforting image. The poem balances humor with a sense of the deceased’s passion for the sport, keeping the tone light and celebratory.

2. “The Cookie Monster’s Last Crumb”

Sally’s gone to that great bakery in the sky,
Where cookies never burn and waistlines never lie.
She’s kneading clouds of flour, so soft and white,
Whipping up a storm from morning till night.

Her snickerdoodles were legendary, her brownies divine,
Now she’s sharing recipes with angels, over heavenly wine.
Saint Peter’s got a sweet tooth, he’s in for a treat,
As Sally’s cookies make even harps sound extra sweet.

So when you smell something delicious on the breeze,
It’s just Sally, baking up some heavenly cheese-
cakes, pies, and pastries of every sort,
In that big kitchen where calories don’t count.

This poem fondly remembers someone known for their love of baking and eating cookies. It imagines them continuing their passion in the afterlife, bringing smiles through the idea of heavenly cookie-making. The poem uses cookie-related imagery and terminology, creating a humorous yet comforting image of the deceased’s afterlife. It balances playful exaggeration with genuine affection, keeping the tone warm and celebratory.

3. “The Eternal Prankster”

Old Tom’s gone to play his final joke,
On Saint Peter, that poor heavenly bloke.
He’s swapped the golden harps for kazoos,
And painted the pearly gates in rainbow hues.

The angels are in for a wild, wild ride,
With whoopee cushions on every cloud they glide.
Tom’s rigged the halos to spin and blink,
And spiked the holy water with invisible ink.

So if you hear laughter from up above,
It’s just Tom, spreading his prankster love.
Heaven’s got a new chief of mischief and fun,
The afterlife party has only begun!

This poem celebrates the life of someone known for their love of jokes and pranks. It playfully imagines them continuing their mischievous ways in the afterlife, bringing laughter through the idea of heavenly pranks. The poem uses prank-related imagery and scenarios, creating a humorous yet affectionate image of the deceased’s personality. It balances playful exaggeration with genuine fondness, keeping the tone lighthearted while acknowledging the person’s impact on others.

4. “The Procrastinator’s Punch Line”

Here lies Bob, who lived life slow,
Always saying, “I’ll do it tomorrow.”
He arrived late to his own birth, they say,
And now he’s fashionably late on his final day.

He put off fixing that leaky sink,
Procrastinated learning to think.
His “To-Do” list grew longer each year,
Now it’s as long as his heavenly beer.

But Bob’s in no rush, he’s taking his time,
Strolling through eternity, no reason or rhyme.
So if you’re waiting for him at the pearly gate,
Bring a book, a snack, he might be late!

This poem pokes gentle fun at someone known for their tendency to procrastinate. It uses the concept of being “late” in various contexts, culminating in a humorous observation about their final departure. The poem incorporates multiple examples of procrastination and uses the idea of being “late” as a recurring theme. It balances humor with a touch of poignancy, keeping the tone light while acknowledging the person’s quirks.

5. “The Fashionista’s Final Show”

Fabulous Fran has taken her final bow,
On heaven’s runway, she’s strutting now.
She’s traded her Louboutins for wings so bright,
And her designer handbag for a harp, oh what a sight!

The angels are in awe of her heavenly style,
As she bedazzles her halo with a mischievous smile.
Saint Peter’s got nothing on her fashion sense,
As she turns the pearly gates into a picket fence.

So when you see a rainbow with extra flair,
Know it’s just Fran, giving clouds a makeover up there.
Heaven’s dress code will never be the same,
With Fran as its newest fashion flame!

This poem celebrates someone known for their love of fashion and style. It playfully imagines them bringing their fashion sense to the afterlife, creating a humorous image of heavenly couture. The poem uses fashion-related terminology and concepts, creating a vivid image of the deceased’s personality through their style choices. It balances humor with appreciation for the person’s passion, keeping the tone upbeat and celebratory.

6. “The Technophobe’s Upgrade”

Here lies Ted, who feared all things tech,
His relationship with gadgets? A total wreck.
He thought Wi-Fi was a brand of coffee,
And Bluetooth? A rare dental anomaly.

But now Ted’s got the ultimate upgrade, you see,
In a place where all tech support is free.
No more passwords to forget or reset,
In heaven, every cloud is a perfect internet.

So when your phone acts up or your computer’s slow,
Think of Ted, finally in the know.
He’s probably teaching angels how to use their wings,
While enjoying a heaven free of technical things!

This poem gently teases someone who struggled with technology during their lifetime. It humorously suggests that they’ve finally escaped technical difficulties in the afterlife. The poem incorporates common tech-related frustrations and uses the concept of an “upgrade” in a metaphorical sense. It balances humor with empathy for the person’s struggles, keeping the tone light while acknowledging a common modern challenge.

7. “The Chocoholic’s Delight”

There once was a gal named Sue,
Whose love for chocolate always grew.
Now in heaven she dwells,
With cocoa-scented clouds, she tells,
And rivers of fudge to canoe!

This limerick celebrates someone with a notorious sweet tooth, particularly for chocolate. It playfully imagines them enjoying endless treats in the afterlife. The poem follows the AABBA rhyme scheme of a limerick, uses chocolate-related imagery and wordplay, and creates a humorous yet comforting image of the afterlife. It keeps the tone light and celebratory of the person’s passion.

8. “The Fisherman’s Tale”

A fisherman named Mike, so bold,
Of catches huge, he always told.
Now he’s gone to fish,
In heaven’s endless dish,
Where his tales might finally hold!

This limerick pokes gentle fun at a fishing enthusiast known for exaggerating their catches. It humorously suggests they’ve gone to a place where their tall tales might finally come true. The poem adheres to the limerick structure, incorporates fishing terminology and the concept of “tall tales,” and balances humor with affection for the person’s passion. It keeps the tone playful while acknowledging a common trait among fishing enthusiasts.

9. “The Karaoke King’s Encore”

funny eulogy poem: karaoke king's encore

There was a karaoke king named Lou,
Whose voice made everyone say “Whew!”
Now he sings on high,
Making angels cry,
“Heaven’s jukebox needs fine-tuning too!”

This limerick celebrates someone known for their enthusiastic (if not necessarily skilled) karaoke performances. It humorously imagines them continuing to sing in the afterlife, much to the chagrin of the angels. The poem follows the limerick rhyme scheme, uses music-related imagery and concepts, and balances humor with appreciation for the person’s enthusiasm. It keeps the tone light while gently poking fun at the person’s singing ability.

10. “The Great Escape Artist”

Old Jim was known for his sneaky ways,
At boring events, he’d make swift getaways.
One time at his niece’s flute recital so dull,
He army-crawled out, past faces lulled.

Under chairs he shimmied, past snoring uncles,
Over purses he vaulted, with catlike muscles.
He reached the door, freedom in sight,
When his cellphone rang – oh, what a fright!

The music stopped, all eyes turned his way,
Caught in the act on that fateful day.
Now Jim’s made his final grand escape,
To a place where boring events don’t take shape.

So when you feel a cool breeze at a tedious affair,
It’s just Jim, still sneaking out with flair!

This poem recounts a humorous incident where the deceased attempted to sneak out of a boring event. It uses vivid imagery to bring the scene to life, culminating in a playful comparison to their final departure. The poem narrates a specific, relatable incident, uses descriptive language to create a vivid mental image, and builds up to a humorous conclusion linking the anecdote to the person’s passing. It keeps the tone light while showcasing the person’s personality.

11. “The Legendary Snorer”

In loving memory of Fred, the human chainsaw,
Whose snores could rattle windows and shake the law.
His nighttime symphony, a force of nature so strong,
Could drown out thunder and make earthquakes seem not so long.

Neighbors five blocks away would awake with a start,
Thinking a freight train had taken a wrong turn, bless their heart.
Earplugs became currency, white noise machines a must,
For those brave souls who dared to sleep near our dear Fred’s dust.

But now Fred sleeps the eternal sleep, oh so quiet and still,
No more will his snores echo over valley and hill.
Heaven’s got a new challenge, soundproofing clouds with care,
To ensure Fred’s legendary snores don’t wake angels unaware.

So when you hear a rumble on a calm, clear night,
Don’t be alarmed, it’s just Fred, snoring with all his might.
In that great bedroom in the sky, where sleep is always deep,
Our champion snorer continues his epic, endless sleep.

This poem celebrates someone known for their impressive snoring abilities. It humorously recounts the impact of their snoring on others, before suggesting they’re now resting peacefully. The poem uses exaggeration for comic effect, incorporates vivid imagery related to snoring, and balances humor with affection. It keeps the tone playful while acknowledging a common, often frustrating, human trait.

12. “The Directionally Challenged”

Meet Sarah, who could get lost in her own backyard,
Her sense of direction? Completely marred.
GPS was her constant companion, her guiding light,
But even it would throw up its hands in fright.

Once, on a trip to the corner store,
She ended up in a different state, unsure.
“Turn left,” the GPS would plead,
But right she’d go, with unwavering speed.

Her friends would joke, “Sarah’s on an adventure!”
When she’d show up late, her arrival a venture.
But now she’s found her way at last,
To a place where getting lost is in the past.

So if you see a shooting star zigzag across the sky,
It’s just Sarah, still taking the scenic route on high.

This poem pokes gentle fun at someone who had a notoriously poor sense of direction. It recounts humorous incidents of getting lost before suggesting they’ve finally found their way. The poem includes specific examples of the person’s navigational challenges and uses the concept of “finding one’s way” both literally and metaphorically. It balances humor with empathy for a common struggle and ends on a comforting note about the person’s final journey.

13. “Ode to a Couch Potato” (Parody of “Ode on a Grecian Urn”)

O comfy couch! Thou foster-child of silence and slow time,
Sylvan historian, who canst thus express
A flowery tale more sweetly than our rhyme:
What leaf-fring’d legend haunts about thy shape
Of deities or mortals, or of both,
In Tempe or the dales of Arcady?
What men or gods are these? What maidens loth?
What mad pursuit? What struggle to escape?
What pipes and timbrels? What wild ecstasy?

O noble recliner! Fair attitude! with brede
Of marble men and maidens overwrought,
With forest branches and the trodden weed;
Thou, silent form, dost tease us out of thought
As doth eternity: Cold Pastoral!
When old age shall this generation waste,
Thou shalt remain, in midst of other woe
Than ours, a friend to man, to whom thou say’st,
“Beauty is truth, truth beauty,—that is all
Ye know on earth, and all ye need to know.”

This poem parodies Keats’ famous ode, replacing the Grecian urn with a beloved couch potato. It celebrates the deceased’s love of relaxation and TV watching in a grandiose, poetic style. The poem mimics the structure and style of Keats’ ode, replacing classical imagery with modern, couch-related concepts. It balances humor with genuine affection for the person’s habits and keeps the tone playful while showcasing literary knowledge.

14. “The Bureaucrat’s Ascension” (Satirical)

Attention all celestial beings! Please take note:
Form C-1357 “Mortal Ascension” has been duly filed,
For one Mr. Johnson, bureaucrat extraordinaire, newly deceased.
Please process in triplicate, with appropriate celestial seals.

Agenda for Heavenly Orientation:
1. Halo Fitting and Wing Measurement (allow 3-5 business days)
2. Cloud Walking Safety Seminar (attendance mandatory)
3. Harp Basics 101 (earplugs provided)

Please note: All complaints must be submitted in writing,
Using Form G-789 “Grievances (Afterlife Division)”
Responses will be processed within 4-6 eternities.

Mr. Johnson kindly requests a corner cloud with a view,
Preferably near the Pearly Gates Department of Motor Vehicles.
He’s eager to implement his new “Take-a-Number” system,
To streamline the entry process for future arrivals.

Remember: Heaven is an equal opportunity afterlife.
No cutting in line, no bribing Saint Peter,
And absolutely no expedited processing without proper authorization.

Welcome to eternity, Mr. Johnson. Your red tape awaits!

This satirical poem imagines a bureaucrat’s journey to the afterlife, complete with forms to fill and red tape to navigate. It gently pokes fun at bureaucratic processes while celebrating the deceased’s dedication to their work. The poem uses bureaucratic terminology and concepts for humorous effect, creates a vivid image of heavenly bureaucracy, and balances satire with respect for the person’s professional life. It keeps the tone light while acknowledging the frustrations of bureaucracy.

15. “The Social Media Addict’s Update”

Status Update: Offline indefinitely.
Location: The Cloud (literally).
Feeling: #Blessed

Just checked in at Pearly Gates Lounge.
Wi-Fi signal strength: Heavenly!
No more “forgot password” issues here.

Relationship Status: It’s complicated (with my harp).
Occupation: Professional cloud surfer.

New Friend Request from: St. Peter
(Accept/Ignore)

Memory from 5 years ago: Remember when I said I’d die without my phone?
Plot twist!

Current Mood: Ethereal with a chance of eternal bliss.

Like and share if you miss me!
Comments disabled for this post (and all future posts).

Signing off for the last time.
TTFN (Ta-ta for now… and forever!)

#NoFilter #AngelSelfie #Heaven #Blessed #EternalLife #NoMoreDataCharges

This poem parodies social media posts, imagining the deceased’s final status update. It uses platform-specific language and concepts to create a humorous yet touching tribute. The poem incorporates social media terminology and formatting, uses the concept of being “offline” as a metaphor for passing, and balances humor with a poignant acknowledgment of the person’s absence. It keeps the tone contemporary and relatable.

Humorous eulogy cartoon

Source: wimpygirl.com

Creating Your Own Funny Eulogy Poem

Creating your own funny eulogy poem can be a meaningful way to honor a loved one. Start by gathering memories and anecdotes about the deceased. Choose a poetic form that suits your writing style and the person’s personality. Balance humor with respect and genuine emotion. Seek feedback from others who knew the deceased well.

Brainstorming Ideas

When brainstorming ideas, create a list of the deceased’s notable traits, habits, and quirks. Recall funny stories or incidents involving the person. Consider their favorite sayings, jokes, or expressions. Think about how they would want to be remembered.

Structuring Your Poem

Once you have your ideas, it’s time to give your poem structure. Decide on a poetic form (e.g., rhyming couplets, limerick, free verse). Create an outline with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Arrange your ideas in a logical sequence. Consider building up to a final punchline or touching sentiment.

Incorporating Personal Memories

Personal memories are the heart of a funny eulogy poem. Select memories that showcase the deceased’s humor or unique qualities. Use specific details to make the anecdotes vivid and relatable. Ensure the chosen memories are appropriate for all attendees. Balance humorous recollections with touching moments.

Refining Your Work

After drafting your poem, it’s time to refine it. Read the poem aloud to check for rhythm and natural flow. Refine your language, focusing on vivid imagery and strong word choices. Ensure the humor is gentle and not offensive. Seek feedback from others who knew the deceased well.

[This video provides tips on writing and delivering eulogies, which can be helpful when crafting a funny eulogy poem. It offers insights on striking the right tone and connecting with the audience.]

Source: youtube.com

Delivering a Funny Eulogy Poem

Delivering a funny eulogy poem requires sensitivity, good timing, and the ability to read the room. Practice your delivery to get comfortable with the material. Be prepared to adjust your tone based on the audience’s reactions. Use appropriate body language and facial expressions. Have a plan for transitioning to more serious elements of the eulogy.

Timing and Pacing

Good timing is crucial when delivering a funny eulogy poem. Speak clearly and at a measured pace, allowing time for the audience to absorb each line. Pause after punchlines or particularly poignant moments to let the impact sink in. Be prepared to adjust your speed based on the audience’s reactions.

Body Language and Facial Expressions

Your body language and facial expressions play a significant role in how your poem is received. Maintain an open, warm posture and make eye contact with the audience. Allow your facial expressions to reflect the emotions in the poem, whether they’re humorous or touching. Remember, your non-verbal cues can enhance the impact of your words.

Reading the Room

Be prepared for a range of reactions when delivering a funny eulogy poem. Some audience members may laugh, while others might cry or remain stoic. Stay flexible and be ready to adjust your delivery based on the overall mood of the room. If a joke doesn’t land as expected, move on smoothly without drawing attention to it.

Transitioning to Serious Elements

If your funny eulogy poem is part of a larger tribute, you’ll need to plan how to transition to more serious elements. Consider ending your poem on a more reflective note, or use a brief pause to signal a shift in tone. Be prepared to modulate your voice and demeanor as you move into other aspects of the eulogy.

Tips for writing a eulogy

Source: squarespace.com

Challenges and Considerations

Writing and delivering a funny eulogy poem can present unique challenges. Be prepared for emotional difficulties when writing or delivering the poem. Consider potential sensitivities among the audience members. Have strategies in place for handling unexpected reactions or emotions. Seek support from others if you’re struggling with the task.

Dealing with Emotions

Writing a funny eulogy poem while grieving can be emotionally challenging. You might find yourself laughing one moment and crying the next. Allow yourself to experience these emotions as they come. Take breaks when needed, and don’t rush the process. Remember that it’s okay to laugh and find joy in memories even while grieving.

Considering Diverse Perspectives

Funerals often bring together people from various backgrounds, each with their own way of grieving and their own relationship to the deceased. When writing and delivering a funny eulogy poem, be mindful of these diverse perspectives. Aim for humor that’s universally relatable and avoid potentially divisive or offensive content.

Balancing Humor and Respect

Striking the right balance between humor and respect is crucial when crafting a funny eulogy poem. The goal is to celebrate the person’s life, not to mock or diminish their memory. Ensure that your humor comes from a place of love and affection. When in doubt, err on the side of gentleness and warmth.

Handling Unexpected Reactions

Even with thorough preparation, you may find yourself overcome with emotion while delivering your funny eulogy poem. This is perfectly normal and understandable. Have a plan in place for how to handle these moments. Take deep breaths, pause if needed, and don’t be afraid to show genuine emotion – it can help connect you with the audience.

Conclusion

Creating a funny eulogy poem is a deeply personal and potentially healing experience. It allows you to celebrate the joy and laughter your loved one brought into the world, even as you mourn their loss. While the task may

Creating a funny eulogy poem is a deeply personal and potentially healing experience. It allows you to celebrate the joy and laughter your loved one brought into the world, even as you mourn their loss. While the task may seem daunting, remember that your genuine feelings and memories are the most important ingredients. Trust in your connection with the deceased and let that guide your words.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the task of writing a funny eulogy poem, remember that there are resources available to help. The Eulogy Generator tool can assist you in creating a personalized tribute that blends humor with heartfelt memories. It can help you structure your thoughts and find the right words to honor your loved one in a way that feels authentic and respectful.

Whether you choose to write the poem entirely on your own or use a tool for assistance, the most important thing is that your tribute comes from the heart. Your words, infused with love, memories, and yes, even laughter, will provide comfort and celebration – a fitting tribute to a life well-lived.

Eulogy generator

Craft Your Eulogy in Minutes

The #1 Eulogy Generator is ready to help.

Losing a loved one is devastating, and finding the right words can be challenging. Our Eulogy Generator helps create a meaningful tribute to celebrate their life and impact.