I have multiple friends dealing with truly tragic situations.
I have multiple friends dealing with truly tragic situations, like the premature death of a sibling and the very serious illness of a spouse. I know the very worst thing I could do would be to disappear, but I also live in fear of saying the wrong thing or putting them in the position of comforting me.
So, ask, “Is there something that you need right now?” Or say, “I’m sorry you’re going through this; do you want to talk about it?” And then listen to the answer. If you’re actively listening, your brain won’t get mired in trying to find the words to make it all better. There are no words that will make it all better. Accept that, release yourself from that responsibility and remember that you may say something that doesn’t come out right. That’s OK, too. Sometimes the only words you need are “I love you. I’m sorry. I’m here.”If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.
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