Join Others, Show You Care
Today I visited a friend whose husband recently passed away. Other obligations will prevent me from attending the visitation and memorial service and I wanted to do something to express our family’s concern for her and her children.
Offering a casserole and a hug seemed the least I could do. Yet I still feel horrible that I can’t be there for the family tomorrow in their time of biggest need.
That wasn’t always how I felt about reaching out to those in mourning though. For years, I’d do almost anything to avoid those difficult circumstances.
Facing the grief, the sadness, the tears scared me. I was never quite sure what to say when people faced terrible losses and wondered if my words would make the pain worse.
I still am somewhat scared, and I’m still not quite sure what to say. But in the past few years I’ve come to realize the importance of joining others in their pain.
I’ve discovered I don’t need to have all the answers, or any for that matter. What’s important is that I care and show that in a tangible way.
Simply hanging out with someone grieving—offering food, a simple gift, a hug, a listening ear is enough.
And as the darkness of grief begins to lift, join in their journey of living as well. Show them you care.
It can make all the difference.
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up as you are already doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
Share in the Discussion: Is there someone who needs you to join them in their grief right now, or perhaps in their living? Does doing so come easy or hard for you?
Linking with Lisa-Jo on the prompt, JOIN, for
By His grace ≈
Julie
Find hope in your real-life struggles. We'll chase it together! I am a wife; mom of 4 (including a young adult daughter with special needs); miscarriage mom of 5; author & follower of Jesus Christ. I write, edit, speak and enjoy everything outdoors.
“I’ve discovered I don’t need to have all the answers, or any for that matter. What’s important is that I care and show that in a tangible way…” Yes and YES, this is SO true. Just to be with them and love on them is so very powerful. I just love your heart for others, to walk quietly by their side in grief and build relationship to one day share joy. Just beautiful!
Thanks, Jacque, for the kind words. We all need to love a little more.
“I’ve discovered I don’t need to have all the answers, or any for that matter. What’s important is that I care and show that in a tangible way…” Yes and YES, this is SO true. Just to be with them and love on them is so very powerful. I just love your heart for others, to walk quietly by their side in grief and build relationship to one day share joy. Just beautiful!
I love this post. I’m not good at talking to people who are grieving, but I need to get better. Thanks for this. (from 5 Min Friday)
It can be difficult and uncomfortable, Kelly, but when we reach out anyway, much of that anxiety dissipates. Thanks for visiting.
Loved this – I’m often so scared of saying or doing the wrong thing that I just don’t say or do anything. And that’s certainly not showing that I care. Thank you for the reminder!
I understand completely, Liz!
“I was never quite sure what to say when people faced terrible losses and wondered if my words would make the pain worse.” This is so true to what I have felt in the past and still struggle with the words at time. What I have learned is that sometimes words are necessary. That just being near and available to those who have lost is enough. Thanks so much for sharing this today! Blessings!
You are welcome, Wendy. I think there are many of us who struggle with this issue. Thank you for stopping by.