8 simple words to say when when someone you love is grieving (and not "Everything happens for a reason"

Some things in life cannot be fixed. They can only be carried.

"Grief is brutally painful. Grief does not only occur when someone dies. When relationships fall apart, you grieve. When opportunities are shattered, you grieve. When illnesses wreck you, you grieve.

Losing a child cannot be fixed. Being diagnosed with a debilitating illness cannot be fixed. Facing the betrayal of your closest confidante cannot be fixed. These things can only be carried.

Let me be clear: If you've faced a tragedy and someone tells you in any way that your tragedy was meant to be, happened for a reason, will make you a better person, or that taking responsibility for it will fix it, you have every right to remove them from your life."

The eight words: I acknowledge your pain. I'm here with you.

8 simple words to say when when someone you love is grieving.