When a relative, a friend, or colleague lost someone dear to them, we will try to console them. A grieving person can say one of the worst about themselves and it’s OK. It may be logical for a member of the clergy to say, “He is in a better place” when someone comes to them for advice. While an acquaintance who says it may not feel right.
Picking the right words you can say to someone doesn’t have to be hard. When you speak from the bottom of your heart, you will always find the right words to say that can ease someone’s pain at a funeral.
In the Philippines, it is common to hold a wake before the funeral. Simply showing up already means so much to the bereaved family. You can bring some food, refreshments or coffee, fruits, or offer some help such as picking up the flowers, helping with the funeral arrangements, taking care of the children, etc. Don’t wait for the person to reach out to you. You need to reach out to the person. Because at this moment, they might be confused and overwhelmed, your tiny actions would be a big help to them already.
When a close friend, relative, or colleague lost someone so dear to them, there is no way that you can fix their pain. Allow them to grieve and be sad about what is happening around them. Give them space when they need it or be there for them because that is the only thing you can do for them. Check them once in a while. Remember, there is no right or wrong in grieving. But can always make things a little bit better for the bereaved person.