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Beatitudes for Friends of the Bereaved
by Nancy A. Todd
Blessed are they who allow time to mourn, as grief is a long-lasting process.
Blessed are they who accept the feelings of the mourners, allowing them the dignity to cry or be angry or to question God without judgment.
Blessed are they who do not say, “I know just how you feel.” Each person’s grief is private, personal and unique.
Blessed are they who show compassion with a touch or hug, knowing that words are not always necessary and silence is not bad.
Blessed are they who avoid trying to comfort with clichés or empty explanations and answers when their loving presence would be enough.
Blessed are they who show their concern with cards, letters, phone calls, and visits while they are sensitive to the mourner’s need to be alone at times.
Blessed are they who invite the mourner out for a walk or to dinner or a movie, and who ask again even if they are turned down several times.
Blessed are they who allow the mourner to talk about the loved one and are not afraid to mention the name or relive a memory. It is a comfort knowing he/she is remembered and missed.
Blessed are they who give comfort and encouragement to the forgotten mourners—the friends, in-laws, extended family members, step-parents or step-children and others close to the loved one.
Blessed are they who remember the mourners on painful anniversaries, birthdays, and family holidays when they may miss their loved one the most.
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