There is a fun new YouTube video going around that was created by the awesome blogger over at FreshWidow
It’s a short clip in the vein of all the recent “Sh!t people say” series.
Sh!t people say to Widows & Widowers
It’s hilariously well done.
So this also begs the question….What DO you say to a grieving person?
Perhaps the best thing to say is……. “I’m Sorry”
Then present an inviting stance to the grieving person that would allow a hug if the grieving person so chooses, but not so inviting that would cause awkwardness if the person doesn’t want a hug.
Then promptly DO something for them without asking. Like emptying the trash or doing some dishes….
++++++++++++++++
And make sure you stick around to the end to read the credits…..There is a familiar name in there J
I guess I should clarify, I'm talking about doing something unasked for a person in the early stages of grief.... well, unless you want to clean my bathroom... you can totally do that for me unasked.
ReplyDeleteI think seeing all these statements that aren't really very helpful and/or meaningful to someone dealing with grief was eye-opening. I hope I would never say any of them, to anyone, but stupidity can rear its ugly head when we least expect it sometimes.
ReplyDeleteI have no idea which line you contributed or if you are the handsome man in the video, but whatever your contributions, this was good to see. I hope all those well-meaning people learn to keep it brief and kind.
And, yes, doing Real things for people who are grieving seems to be the perfect response. Even cleaning the bathroom. :)
Teresa
DeleteThe one phrase I have vowed never to say to anyone again:
"I know exactly how you feel"
And those people do mean well. I was one of those people once. When you live a life that doesn't have any real loss or hardship, there just isn't any perspective.
....and as for contributing to the video, I only supplied a line or two, I'm not the gentleman at the end.