"Some of the classic platitudes can close off a conversation. They can make me feel that my opinion and experiences are not valid, or that the person I am speaking to doesn’t want to hear me talk about them.
That can cause a sense of isolation, drive a wedge, and foster resentment. It’s not pleasant for anyone.
Sometimes all you can do is listen, or offer a hug. If you do feel the need to speak, ask an open question (“What does that mean?”, “Would you like to tell me more?”) or simply say you don’t know what to say.
There’s no escaping the fact that these conversations can be uncomfortable. But let’s remember your discomfort lasts only for a short while – and such compassion, understanding, and empathy will mean so much to the grieving person.
What I need most from people is compassion and support, not pity or correction please."
Compassion and Support, Not Pity and Correction, Please - Headspace Perspective
You have come to the right place, and we are glad you are here. This is a safe place to share stories of love and loss, devastating grief, exhausting care-giving, memorials, advanced directives, mourning, hope, and despair. We want to hear about about what you wish you had known or done differently, what you wish those around you had known or done differently, and what went right. We will never tell you to move on or find closure. "What cannot be said will be wept." Sappho
Sunday, October 11, 2015
Compassion and Support, Not Pity and Correction, Please - Headspace Perspective
Labels:
comfort,
condolence
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