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THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS of cape town |
Seven Ways to Help when Someone Dies
F - Find the Time.
Most people “find the time” to attend the funeral, but seldom keep "finding the time" to stay in
touch with bereaved friends. At the time of the death and for many months afterward, your
companionship and thoughtful concern are very important! Since bereaved persons seldom call
for help when they need a friend, make it your business to "find the time" and call on them.
R - RESPOND.
Bereaved persons need to be reassured that no matter what has happened, or is yet to come, there
are people who genuinely care for them, and who cared about the deceased. However, expressions
that say, "I understand" or attempt to explain "why", often carry unintentional assumptions that
do more harm than good. As a rule, remember:
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'A simple hug or hand-shake will show them that you care;
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They'll appreciate a mem’ry, if a short one you can share;
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But as much as any other thing you give a grieving friend,
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It's your patient gift of listening he'll remember in the end.'
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I - INVOLVE.
Involvement with others is the very elixir of life, but finding your place in the human race
is tough when you're suddenly running solo. Encourage your friend to become involved again
but resist the temptation to become a "match-maker". Expect him or her to relate differently
to old friends and allow enough "latitude" for him or her to try on new roles. In short "involve"
the bereaved person in life again by inviting them to share freely in yours.
E - ENCOURAGE.
True encouragement is more than just a pat-on-the-back with a handful of platitudes! It is born
of an honest belief in someone and must be communicated sincerely in both word and deed. It is
the power that gives us the strength to believe in ourselves. Like vitamin "C", you need a little
encouragement every day. If you would help a grieving friend, be sure you give your share - today!
N - NEVER ASSUME.
Never assume you can't make a difference. It was Longfellow who wrote, "Give what you have,
to someone, it may be far greater than you dare to think". The three most important things we
have to give to each other are our time, our undivided attention and our unfailing love. The
least important is our advice.
D - DESERVE CONFIDENCE.
The word "confidence" is derived from the word "confide" and alludes precisely to that quality of
trust we place in our true friends. If the burdens of grief are to be borne successfully they must
be shared, "confided", with someone we can trust implicitly. As friends, when we are called upon
to share another's sorrow, we must keep watch of ourselves that we always deserve such "confidence".
S - SHARE YOUR FRIENDSHIP FREQUENTLY.
Bereaved persons often feel isolated because friends are unsure of what to say. Usually, a cordial
enquiry will open a conversation but from there it is best to let your friend lead the way. Try
not to make judgements or give advice unless asked, but know that learning to express all the mixed
emotions of grief is the key to their healing. As the sun's rays help heal the body, so friendship
is a sunshine to the soul. Share your friendship frequently, and let its light shine in the darkness
of those you love.
- B.H. Conley
Friends
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You don't need to say you 're sorry
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It’s written in your face
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I know you share my sadness
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By the warmth of your embrace.
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Don't try to justify the "why ",
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Or "how" this came to be
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Or explain away the mystery
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Of death's reality.
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Just know that more than any words
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The thing I hold most dear
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Is the friendship in your handshake
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And the fact that you are here.
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- Bruce H. Conley
APPRECIATION
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You come, friend, with your hand
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Outstretched in love to help me stand.
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Your caring gives me comfort
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And strength, to know I can.
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My burden now seems lighter
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And easier to bear,
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Just knowing that you care for me
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And that your hand is there,
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- K. L. Howard
Reprinted with the permission of the author for the exclusive use
of The Compassionate Friends, South Africa.
COPYRIGHT1983 B.H.CONLEY
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