When someone dies, passes away, crosses over, or whatever euphemism is used, it’s hard to know what to say to their loved ones. You want to be supportive and say those magical words that will make everything right for them again. But truth be told, there are no GOOD words to say. Consequently, many people resort to “I’m sorry for your loss,” and the loved one is left to say what? “Thank you,”? It hardly seems adequate.
OTHER PHRASES TO AVOID
“I’m sorry for your loss” is a common phrase when at a funeral or Cremation in Bel Air or really, anywhere in the country. However, there are several other phrases that often leave the loved one cringing.
- “Time heals all wounds”, or similarly, “everything will get back to normal soon”. Life as you know, it will not be normal again soon and the wounds will likely never heal. While you may establish a new routine that doesn’t have your loved one in it, things can never return to the way they were before the death of your loved one.
- “I know exactly how you feel.” Face it. You don’t. No one does as everyone feels differently on the death of a mother, a father, a lover, or a friend. Just because one person has lost the same person you have doesn’t mean they feel the same. Avoid this trite saying at all costs.
- “Remember the good times. They’ll give you peace at heart.” This may seem like an all right thing to say, after all, it’s a more positive comment full of hope for the future as you remember the past. However, experts explain that we need to feel grief to overcome it. Living in the past doesn’t allow you to go forward.
SO WHAT SHOULD YOU SAY AT A FUNERAL OR CREMATION IN BEL AIR?
- “I can’t say that I know what you’re feeling, but, I want you to know I’m here to help in any way.” This simple acknowledgment and offer can be wonderful if you truly mean it.
- “I sleep odd hours, so if you’re not sleeping well and want to talk, please call me at any time.” When losing a loved one, sleep is difficult, and loneliness can creep in any time of the day.
For more suggestions and information on how to appropriately say goodbye, visit the website of Evans Funeral Chapel and Cremation Services.
