Simple Gestures

I woke up one day last week to a text from someone I haven’t seen or spoken to in probably 25 years. She was a childhood friend of my ex-husband, who passed away 18 months ago.
 
I shared her text with my boys, and their response was mood-changing. As we are all still grieving the loss, healing in different ways, and learning how to live with the anger cancer brought us—the devastation of losing a parent, a friend, and a co-parent—this small gesture from her lifted us in surprising ways.
 
So next time you find yourself wondering how you can help a grieving family, remember that sometimes a simple text can mean more than anything else.
Simple gesture text

More Simple Gestures...

If you know someone who has lost a loved one, here are a few simple, thoughtful gestures that may bring comfort:

  • Reach out on meaningful dates. A quick text, email, or call before and/or on the birthday of their loved one can mean a lot. Let them know you’re thinking of them and that you understand this may be a difficult time.
  • Acknowledge anniversaries. The days leading up to the anniversary of their loved one’s passing can be especially hard. A simple message of support shows you care.
  • Remember their birthday. Reaching out on your friend’s own birthday is another way to let them know they’re not alone.
Even the smallest gesture of kindness and remembrance can offer comfort in ways you might not realize.