for each and every expression of kindness

I pulled out my wooden basket of writing supplies today so I could sit down and acknowledge the kind expressions of sympathy I have received in the days since my mom died.   

I have read each and every hand-written note several times already and know that I will do so again many times in the year ahead.   Notes like these are held very dear. 

Dottie sent me a great article she recently ran across on the topic of expressing your condolences.   I thought you might enjoy reading it as well.  I will not profess to be any kind of an expert on how to express your sorrow to a person who has lost someone they love.  What I will tell you is that for me it is the simple things that are the most meaningful.    The gentle pats on my arm or shoulder felt so kind, the bag of M&M's a co-worker slipped across the table to me made me smile, the way some people just came right up and said "I am so sorry" these are the things that brought comfort to me.  Things that made me know the death of my mother did not go unnoticed.     

For each and every expression of kindness (including all of your comments here) I am ever grateful. 

Comments

[Vicki in Michigan]

Thank you for sharing the article with us.

One of my husband's long-time golf partners was a retired minister. When my uncle died, Don took my hand in his, looked into my eyes, and said "I am very sorry for your loss."

I've always figured that if anyone knew right things to say and do, it would be Don.

When I hear people mention they never know what to say, I tell them who Don was, and what he said.....

[Amy at love made my home]

This is a very interesting article. I admire so much the way that you have shared this journey with us Carol, thank you so much for this as it is so helpful and so very very kind of you. I am so sorry for your sadness and loss, but so grateful for your kindness too. xx

[jaihn]

Yes, kindnesses seem amplified in the wake of the loss of a Dear One, I found.

Your gracious 'Acknowledging the kind expressions...' touches my heart, too.

Thank you for another lovely, tender, post.

xxx

[Joan]

That is an excellent article. Thanks for everything you've provided to us during the course of this journey. I hope you know that I am "present" even though I'm miles and miles away, didn't know Angie and have never met you in person, but I feel I "know" you and your family through your sharing of so many moments with me/us.

There is a sense of loss here but also a sense of peace. I am VERY sorry for your loss...