- “I’m so sorry!”
- “You are in my thoughts and prayers.”
- “What can I do for you?”
- “It’s OK to cry/scream/laugh.”
- “It’s OK to be mad/sad/upset/confused.”
- “There are many people who love and support you.”
- “This is a terrible time for you, but I know you can do what you have to do.”
- “I am here any time you want to talk/e-mail/cry.”
- “I am your friend and I will support you and be here for you no matter what!”
- NOTHING--just give a hug or sit quietly and listen.
“Do not be anxious about…what you ought to say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.” Luke 12:12
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I'm also blogging at Nebraska Family Times. Click to
read the post "Gifts", based on 1 Peter 4:10
As strange as it may seem, I most love the quiet visit, the space for love and unspoken prayers to seep into the center of the room. I also love when people do things for me. Bring me a needed meal or take a load of laundry and return it or take my children to do something fun.
ReplyDeleteGreat post!
Julie Jordan Scott
The Bold Writer from A to Z
Thank you, Julie! Those are perfect things to do as well. God bless you!
DeleteI really like this. I think things like this should be taught to children. I explained to one of my daughters to simply ask an upset friend if she'd like a hug once, and she did and her little friend who was having a bad did want one, and my daughter was beaming afterwards. I may print this out and put it on the fridge.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea, to encourage your daughter to ask a friend if she wants a hug! And I think you're right about teaching these things to children; they're appropriate no matter the age of the person doing the comforting.
DeleteI just found your blog through the A-Z Challenge and really enjoyed this post. I think so often people don't say anything for fear of saying the wrong thing. Your list was a great one.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by and commenting! I think you are right that people don't say anything for fear of saying the wrong thing. I've also had grieving people tell me that people avoid them, out of not knowing what to say.
DeleteA great reminder. I think just being there (nothing) can speak loudest of all in some situations.Simply Sarah
ReplyDeleteYou are right Sarah; sometimes just being there is more important than saying a word.
DeleteGood tips.
ReplyDeleteThanks Cheryl!
ReplyDelete