Most of us would never imagine that the year we get engaged is also the year we will die. My dear, sweet, young friend became engaged to the man who she knew was her soul mate, after finally taking a chance at love again following the painful divorce from her first love. Shortly after … [Read more...] about One Wedding and a Funeral
mourning
What to Say to a Griever
Many of us are at a loss about what to say when a friend has suffered a loss. We know that we ought to say something, but we worry about saying the wrong thing. So we may end up saying nothing at all, which may even be more hurtful to the grieving person who is already feeling alone. The … [Read more...] about What to Say to a Griever
Stages of Grieving?
Many years ago Elizabeth Kubler-Ross wrote a book entitled On Death and Dying. The book identified five stages that a dying person goes through when they are told that they have a terminal illness. Those stages are: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. For many years, in the … [Read more...] about Stages of Grieving?
What Not To Say
I believe most people truly want to be helpful when their loved one is hurting after a loss. And yet, most people probably don't know what to say, so they just say whatever seems right at the moment. Often what we think is right, or what we have been taught to say, isn't always … [Read more...] about What Not To Say
Are You at Risk for Depression?
Contrary to what some might believe, depression is an illness just like any other. It has causes and symptoms just like any other illness. The symptoms of depression enable the diagnosis of the condition since the brain can't be cut open to find the cause of a “disease.” Recovery begins first with … [Read more...] about Are You at Risk for Depression?
10 Tips for Moving Through Grief
When we experience a loss and it's accompanying grief and mourning, it is important to take care of our own needs, even if that means disappointing others at times. All of the strong emotions that are involved can be confusing, distressing, and always changing. Often we can feel several emotions … [Read more...] about 10 Tips for Moving Through Grief