Just Be

Many people have asked me what the right words are to comfort someone when a tragedy hits. I always find this an interesting question because we all know that there are never any right words to fix something that has gone so wrong.

People's grief and heartache are hard to watch. Even a stranger's grief can affect us and move us to tears. It can make us uncomfortable and make us feel helpless. In our helplessness we feel we need to fill the void with words. Many times words are useless.

So what can you do to help when you are faced with another's tragedy? "Just Be." Don't worry about words and thoughts that you have, Just Be.

Just Be there to hold a hand and give a hug. Just Be the shoulder to cry on and the hands that help hold them up. 

Just Be In the room so they are not alone. You don't have to have any words, much less the right ones. Your presence will lend more comfort than words can offer.

Many times we feel the need to take action and to do something tangible. When, in fact, it is sometimes  the intangible that can bring the most comfort. How can we measure the power when you Just Be?

I wish that during my journey with sorrow, someone would have the thought to Just Be with me. Instead people would come, say a few words and then leave and then leave as if I had something contagious. If I could have only articulated that I just wanted them to be with me. They didn't have to speak a word. I just wanted to draw solace from their presence.

When you Just Be you are saying that you know that hurt, grief and sorrow are a solitary journey but you are close by if needed.

If you are ever left wondering what you can do for a friend in need. I hope that you remember my words and try to Just Be. It Just Might Be the best thing you can do.