5 Things To Say When Death Strikes The Young

WHEN DEATH STRIKES THE YOUNG, 

our minds desperately struggle to comprehend and compartmentalize the facts.  The torrent of thoughts looks something like this:

• That's not supposed to happen!
• Who is at fault?
• This should never happen again!
• How can we fill the void?
• How can we go on living?

Did your mind race with feelings and ideas as you read that list? That's NORMAL but I am betting that nothing you considered will be helpful or comforting to the bereaved.

Here are 5 things to consider writing in your condolence note:

• I am so very sorry.
• I feel so fortunate to have known (use name) because ________.
• You were an awesome mom/sister/grandma to (use name) because ________.
• If I had to pick a favorite memory of (use name) it would be when we _______.
• This must be one of the most difficult things you've ever faced, so be gentle with yourself.

Including two or three of those thoughts in your note will result in a memorable and truly comforting condolence note.

The Compassionate Friends is a wonderful organization of peers supporting families who have lost a child (of any age.) International in scope, groups meet in towns and cities around the globe. The website is an excellent resource for gaining sensitivity on this loss.