“Don’t walk in front of me…I may not follow. Don’t walk begin me…. I may not lead. Walk beside me…and just be my friend”
— Albert Camus
Day to day support provides the greatest comfort and consolation to those who are grieving. The simple gifts of friendship will make the biggest difference. Here are a few steps to follow along the path of grief.
- Be There
Your presence is more helpful then advice. Find the time to be with the person doing the daily chores of life. Support is neede over a long period of time. - Initiate and Anticipate
Often those grieving don’t know what they need. Look for the little daily activities that will make their life easier. Offer assistance and support. - Listen
Sharing the story of their loss helps those grieving. Listening is the gift we can give them with patience and love, not judgment or interruption. - Sensitive comments
Nobody truly understands another’s grief. Simple statements of support; “I am here”, I’m sorry”, “You are in my thoughts” provide solace. Sharing memories can be comforting to those in grief. Confirm their desire to hear the memories of others regarding the person they are mourning - Silence is Golden
We are often uncomfortable with silence, yet sometimes there is little that can be said to ease the pain. Quiet companionship can be very soothing to those in grief. Your presence, without words, creates an environment of acceptance and trust
The Stephan Center
Sharing Life Transitions Together
PO Box 77813 Corona, CA 92877
e-mail: info@thestephancenter.org
website: thestephancenter.com