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came out of his own grief experience, the loss of a wife. ---
Feed the hunger
Initially, there’s an abundance of food in the home
where death has struck. Casseroles abound, and
desserts fill kitchen tables and counters. After a
week or so, the food that remains is consigned to the
freezer. The family has dispersed, friends don’t drop
by, and the widow or widower sits alone. Grief robs
them of any semblance of appetite. It’s just too much
trouble to even reheat something.
How can you help? Bring food, of course, but don’t
stop there. Wait a bit until things settle down, and
then invite the grieving person to your home for a
meal. Include several of their friends. Find out
their favorite dishes and prepare them. Don’t make it
a contest among you to see who can make the guest of
honor eat. Instead, simply make it easy for them to
engage in the social interaction and watch for the
results.
Give a gentle touch
Hugs are the best medicine, and help fill the void
left by the absence of a loved one’s touch. The
Message translation of the Bible renders Romans 16:16
as “Holy embraces all around!” What a wonderful
characterization of the family of faith. Enfold your
friend in your arms, and show them you’re holding them
in your heart.
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