Loss of a good friend

[caoimhin]

Hi everyone,

I just found out yesterday that a good friend of mine had died quite suddenly. As he was quite young (39) this was unexpected, but not totally.
He had a variety of health problems, including a heart defect since birth. This is apparently the thing that killed him. He leaves behind a wife and three daughters aged 1-1/2 to 16.

My question is, does anyone have any sage words of advice for me on dealing with this? The death of someone close is not something new, but this one is particularly difficult for some reason.

I'm especially concerned for his family, as he was the main income earner, and his girls will grow up without their daddy.

Thanks in advance...

[Steve K]

Very sad news. The only thing I can think to suggest is just to be there for them, the surviving family that is, and to let them know you will be there for them. I don't know if words can help much at a time like this.
Hope this helps.

[Creirwy Arianrod du Nord]

Sad news.

The only thing I can think to suggest is just to be there for them, the surviving family that is, and to let them know you will be there for them.

Yes, be there for them, listen to them...

And take the time to cure your own grief to...

Taking care of you in this painful moment, to be able to be there also to the one who were is family, that you care about.

Hope that help in this sad time.

With you in mind and heart in this hard time.

[lotuswelcome]

For your friend that has gone now,
for his family and for you, Caoimhin, so you may find strengh and inspiration

love Maca

[Dryadia2]

My sympathies, thoughts and prayers for you Caoimhin, and to your friend who has passed, and his family. Strength also for you all.


Peace and Blessings,
/|\

[Aigeann]

Somehow I scrambled two posts into one posts. Please forgive me.

I meant to say:

While I'm sure it will be difficult, try to remember the good and try to close your eyes to whatever shortcomings they may have had. Perhaps say a prayer that they be remembered and their family finds comfort. I'll keep you in my prayers that you find warm support, too.



With the light of the sun
rays of truth
rays of knowledge
rays of nature
be ever upon your lips, mind and being
May the triple candlelight of grace
illuminate and perserve your soul
this day and every day

(based on a prayer by C. Matthews in the "Celtic Devotional")

[caoimhin]

My deepest gratitude to you all for your kind and thoughtful words of encouragement!

I have told the family that I will be there for them, although it always seems that those words sound a little hollow. I guess that's because in no way can I take the place of their loss. You're right, Steve- words don't seem to help much sometimes.

Creirwy Arianrod, thank you for reminding me to care for myself. Otherwise, I can't help anyone else.

Lotuswelcome and Dryadia2, your sympathy and prayers are inspirational to me.

Aigeann, thank you for reminding me to remember the good and forget the rest. Your devotional prayer is uplifting... I need to find a copy of the Celtic Devotional.

I really do value the support I have from all of you. My spiritual path has been a little confusing lately, and this event has added to the chaos. So the guidance and love I feel from everyone here is very helpful indeed.

Love, blessings and peace,

Caoimhin

[Steve K]

[Creirwy Arianrod du Nord]