c
When you visit, do not worry
about what to say; your presence is all that
is
needed; if you wish to take a flower or anything
meaningful, that’s all right too
c
Don’t be afraid you will upset
the parents by asking or talking about
the
deceased; they are already upset
c
Just sitting with the parents
will most likely fill the silence
c
Listen, no matter what the topic
c
If you were a really close
friend, the parents might be pleased for you to
visit
the deceased friend’s room (if you are
comfortable doing so)
c
You might ask what you can do
for them; ask other relatives what you might
do
to help
c
Do not try to take away the
grieving parent’s pain
c
Talk about the deceased person
(grieving people often like telling stories
about the deceased, "do you remember the
time...")
c
Offer suggestions only when
advice is asked