When you are preparing a eulogy speech it helps to understand the process we all go through when coping with grief.
Everyone wants to help somebody who has suffered a big loss in their life. We have all heard it before: "If there's anything I can do ..."
It's a well-meaning thing to say, but it usually indicates we're really not sure what to do to help.
The trouble is that most people suffering from grief find that family and friends are not sure what to do or say to help, and will often stay silent - or even stay away - because they feel uncomfortable about not being able to help. Coping with grief can become a very lonely journey, and can easily turn from grief to depression.
It doesn't have to be that way. When you know the right kind of things to say in a condolence letter or card, and directly to the person who has suffered a loss, it becomes much easier to help them to cope with the grief. Just knowing how and when to listen is very important.
There are many practical ways that you can help the person through their difficult adjustment. In the short term these include the basics of taking care of the housekeeping, garden and meals, and the many issues that are likely to arise over managing estates and wills. In the longer term, most people who have lost a life partner need some help to resume a normal social life.
You don't want to interfere, but there are some things you can do that can make a big difference.
The downloadable book (right) is a very practical and inspiring guide on how to cope with grief, and how to help someone else through the process. In over 100 pages of clear explanation and copious bullet point checklists, it covers all the important issues - what you should do to help, what to expect and how to cope with the dark days that follow a huge personal loss.
It's not enough to just say "If there's anything I can do ..." There are some things you can and should do that will make a very big difference.
Get your copy of If There's Anything I Can Do ... and take the right steps to help now.
