Selecting appropriate expressions of sympathy for a bereaved friend involves careful consideration. Offering tangible support during a period of grief can communicate care and empathy. Thoughtful presents can provide comfort, acknowledge the loss, and offer a gentle reminder of support during a challenging time. For example, a personalized journal, a cozy blanket, or a donation to a relevant charity in the deceased’s name can convey heartfelt condolences. These gestures demonstrate a willingness to provide solace without intruding upon the grieving process.
Acts of kindness following a significant loss hold considerable value. They offer a tangible demonstration of support, reminding the bereaved individual that they are not alone. Historically, providing comfort and assistance to those experiencing loss has been a cornerstone of community support systems. These acts serve not only as expressions of sympathy but also as practical aid during a period of emotional and often logistical upheaval. Such support has consistently played a crucial role in helping individuals navigate grief and begin the healing process.
This article will explore various appropriate and meaningful ways to offer support to a friend grieving the loss of their mother. Topics discussed will include selecting appropriate gifts, offering practical assistance, and navigating sensitive conversations with empathy and respect. Furthermore, guidance on avoiding common pitfalls and respecting individual grieving processes will be provided.
1. Personalized Gifts
Personalized gifts offer a unique opportunity to express sympathy and provide comfort to a grieving friend. These gifts go beyond generic expressions of condolence, demonstrating thoughtful consideration of the individual’s relationship with their deceased mother. The personal touch can make the gift a cherished keepsake, offering a tangible reminder of love and support during a difficult time.
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Engraved Items
Engraving a meaningful date, a short quote, or the mother’s name on jewelry, a keepsake box, or a picture frame transforms an ordinary object into a treasured memento. This personalization adds a layer of sentimental value, connecting the gift directly to the deceased and offering a tangible reminder of shared memories. For example, a locket engraved with the mother’s initials can provide a source of comfort and connection.
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Custom Photo Albums or Scrapbooks
A curated collection of photos celebrating the friend’s relationship with their mother can be a deeply personal and touching gift. This allows for reflection on happy memories and provides a physical representation of cherished moments. Including handwritten captions or anecdotes further enhances the personal touch and allows for shared stories and reminiscences to be preserved.
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Personalized Blankets or Throws
A soft blanket embroidered with the mother’s favorite flower or a quote that reflects her personality provides comfort during a difficult period. This type of gift offers both practical and emotional support, serving as a physical reminder of warmth and care. The personalization adds a layer of meaning, connecting the gift to the memory of the deceased.
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Donation in the Deceased’s Name to a Favorite Charity
Making a donation in the mother’s name to a cause she cared about serves as a lasting tribute and reflects her values. This gesture honors the deceased while supporting a worthy cause, providing a sense of purpose and meaning during a time of grief. Informing the friend of the donation offers a tangible way to celebrate the mother’s legacy.
These personalized gifts offer a way to honor the deceased while providing comfort and support to the grieving friend. The thoughtfulness and personal touch inherent in these gifts can make a significant difference during a challenging period, fostering a sense of connection and remembrance.
2. Comforting Items
Grief often manifests as a profound sense of vulnerability and emotional distress. Comforting items, given as gifts, can provide a tangible source of solace during this challenging period. These items offer a sense of security and warmth, symbolically representing care and support for the bereaved. The connection between comforting items and gifts for a friend who lost their mother lies in the inherent need for soothing and reassurance following a significant loss. For example, a weighted blanket can offer a sense of calm and security, mimicking the feeling of a comforting hug. Soft, plush materials, such as a luxurious robe or a cozy pair of socks, can provide tactile comfort and a sense of being enveloped in warmth. Aromatherapy products, like calming essential oils or scented candles, can create a peaceful atmosphere conducive to relaxation and reflection.
The practical significance of offering comforting items as gifts stems from their ability to address the physical and emotional manifestations of grief. Sleep disturbances, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating are common experiences following a loss. Comforting items can help mitigate these challenges by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and fostering a sense of peace. A calming herbal tea or a sleep mask can aid in improving sleep quality. A soft, comforting stuffed animal can offer a sense of companionship and emotional support. These items, while seemingly simple, can provide a tangible source of comfort and contribute to a sense of well-being during a period of intense emotional upheaval. Thoughtful selection of these items demonstrates an understanding of the grieving process and a genuine desire to provide support.
In summary, comforting items serve as valuable gifts for a friend grieving the loss of their mother by addressing the inherent need for solace and support. These items provide both practical and emotional benefits, promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and fostering a sense of security. The thoughtful selection of such gifts acknowledges the profound impact of grief and offers a tangible expression of empathy and care during a challenging period of emotional adjustment and healing.
3. Memory-focused gifts
Memory-focused gifts offer a tangible way to honor the deceased and celebrate the enduring bond between a mother and child. Following a loss, these gifts can provide comfort and solace by keeping cherished memories alive. They offer a means of navigating grief while simultaneously celebrating the life and legacy of the departed. These gifts demonstrate an understanding of the importance of remembrance and provide a tangible link to the past.
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Custom Photo Albums or Scrapbooks
A curated collection of photographs showcasing shared moments and milestones can become a treasured keepsake. Chronologically arranged photos, accompanied by handwritten captions or anecdotes, deepen the personal connection and provide a tangible representation of the mother’s life story. Such albums offer a way to revisit happy memories and celebrate the unique relationship between mother and child.
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Framed Photographs or Portraits
Displaying a cherished photograph of the deceased mother in a beautiful frame offers a constant visual reminder of her presence. Choosing a photo that reflects her personality or captures a special moment adds a layer of sentimental value. This simple yet powerful gift can provide comfort and a sense of connection to the departed.
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Memory Boxes or Journals
A personalized memory box or journal provides a dedicated space for storing mementos, letters, and other treasured items associated with the deceased. This allows for the safekeeping of physical reminders and encourages reflection on shared experiences. Such gifts offer a tangible way to preserve memories and honor the deceased’s legacy.
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Memorial Jewelry
Jewelry engraved with the mother’s name, initials, or a meaningful date can serve as a discreet and personal tribute. A locket containing a small photograph or a piece of the mother’s clothing adds a layer of sentimental value. These pieces offer a constant, tangible connection to the deceased and can provide comfort during times of grief.
Memory-focused gifts offer a poignant way to honor the deceased mother while providing comfort and support to the grieving friend. These tangible reminders of shared experiences and cherished moments serve as a lasting tribute to the enduring bond between mother and child, offering solace and a sense of connection during a challenging period of loss and remembrance.
4. Self-Care Packages
Grief associated with the loss of a mother can significantly impact emotional and physical well-being. Self-care practices often become neglected during periods of intense mourning. Self-care packages, offered as gifts, can encourage and facilitate these essential practices, providing support and promoting a sense of comfort during a challenging time. These packages demonstrate care by acknowledging the importance of well-being amidst grief.
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Relaxation and Stress Relief
Items promoting relaxation, such as aromatherapy candles, bath salts, essential oils, or calming herbal teas, can help alleviate stress and anxiety associated with grief. These products encourage moments of respite and self-soothing, fostering a sense of calm amidst emotional turmoil. A weighted blanket, for example, can provide comfort and reduce anxiety through deep pressure stimulation.
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Mindfulness and Emotional Well-being
Incorporating items that encourage mindfulness and emotional processing, such as a guided meditation journal, a calming adult coloring book, or inspirational reading material, can provide tools for coping with grief. These resources can help individuals navigate complex emotions and promote a sense of grounding during a period of emotional instability. A journal, for example, can provide a safe space for expressing thoughts and feelings.
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Physical Comfort and Nourishment
Including items that prioritize physical comfort and nourishment, such as cozy socks, a soft blanket, healthy snacks, or hydrating beverages, acknowledges the physical manifestations of grief. These items can provide a sense of warmth and security while promoting physical well-being, often neglected during periods of mourning. Nutritious snacks, for instance, can help maintain energy levels and support overall health.
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Personal Pampering and Self-Care Rituals
Items encouraging personal pampering and self-care rituals, such as face masks, lotions, or a luxurious bathrobe, promote a sense of self-worth and encourage moments of respite. These small acts of self-care can help restore a sense of normalcy and provide a temporary escape from the emotional weight of grief. A comfortable bathrobe, for example, can create a sense of sanctuary and encourage relaxation.
Self-care packages function as thoughtful gifts for a friend grieving the loss of their mother by acknowledging the importance of well-being during a period of intense emotional and physical strain. By encouraging self-care practices, these packages offer a tangible expression of support and promote healing during a challenging time. The inclusion of items catering to relaxation, mindfulness, physical comfort, and personal pampering provides a holistic approach to supporting a grieving friend’s well-being.
5. Experiences, not things
Tangible gifts can offer comfort after a loss, but experiences provide opportunities for distraction, connection, and memory-making, which can be particularly valuable during grief. Experiences offer a shift in focus, encouraging engagement with the present moment rather than dwelling on the past. This approach to gift-giving aligns with supporting a grieving friend by providing opportunities for healing and creating positive new memories, distinct from material possessions.
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Shared Activities Promoting Connection
Experiences such as attending a concert, visiting a museum, or taking a cooking class together foster connection and shared moments of enjoyment. These activities provide a welcome distraction from grief and create new, positive memories. Shared experiences offer opportunities for conversation, laughter, and emotional support, strengthening the bond between friends during a difficult time. For example, attending a peaceful art exhibit can offer a shared moment of reflection and tranquility.
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Opportunities for Relaxation and Self-Care
Gifting experiences like a spa day, a yoga retreat, or a weekend getaway can encourage self-care and relaxation during a stressful period. These experiences prioritize well-being and provide opportunities for respite from the emotional and mental strain of grief. A massage, for instance, can alleviate physical tension often associated with stress and sadness. These experiences promote healing and self-renewal.
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Activities Honoring the Deceased’s Interests
Experiences aligned with the deceased mother’s passions or hobbies can serve as a meaningful tribute and provide a sense of connection. Attending a performance of her favorite opera, visiting a botanical garden she loved, or taking a class in a skill she enjoyed can honor her memory in a unique and personal way. These experiences offer a way to celebrate the deceased’s life and keep their memory alive through shared experiences. For example, if the mother enjoyed gardening, a visit to a beautiful garden could be a poignant and healing experience.
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Creating New Memories and Moving Forward
Experiences, unlike material possessions, create lasting memories. Gifting an experience like a hot air balloon ride, a weekend camping trip, or a photography workshop provides opportunities for personal growth and creates new, positive associations. These experiences can represent a step towards healing and embracing life after loss, fostering resilience and a sense of hope for the future. They offer a way to create new memories independent of the deceased while still honoring their influence and legacy.
Experiences offer unique benefits in the context of supporting a grieving friend. They encourage connection, promote self-care, honor the deceased, and facilitate the creation of new memories. These intangible gifts can be instrumental in navigating grief and fostering healing, offering a path toward finding solace and embracing life after loss. By prioritizing experiences over material possessions, individuals can offer meaningful support that transcends the immediate aftermath of grief and contributes to long-term well-being.
6. Charitable Donations
Charitable donations offer a meaningful alternative to traditional gifts when supporting a friend grieving the loss of their mother. This approach shifts the focus from material possessions to a gesture of altruism, honoring the deceased while contributing to a cause they valued or that aligns with the circumstances of their passing. Such donations provide a lasting tribute and can offer solace to the bereaved by transforming grief into positive action.
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Supporting Causes Related to the Mother’s Interests
Donating to an organization aligned with the deceased mother’s passions or hobbies creates a personalized tribute that reflects her values and interests. For instance, if she was an avid gardener, a donation to a botanical garden or conservation organization would be a fitting gesture. This approach allows the gift to resonate with the bereaved friend on a deeper level, acknowledging the mother’s unique personality and legacy. It transforms a gesture of sympathy into a celebration of the deceased’s life and passions.
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Contributing to Organizations Addressing the Cause of Death
If the loss resulted from a specific illness or condition, donating to research or support organizations dedicated to that cause can be particularly impactful. This not only honors the deceased but also contributes to potentially preventing similar losses in the future. For example, a donation to a cancer research organization following a loss due to cancer can provide a sense of purpose and hope amidst grief. This type of donation transforms personal loss into a contribution towards a larger cause, potentially benefiting others facing similar challenges.
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Supporting Grief Counseling and Bereavement Services
Donating to organizations providing grief counseling and bereavement services offers practical support to those struggling with loss. This type of donation recognizes the emotional toll of grief and provides resources for individuals navigating the challenging journey of bereavement. Such contributions acknowledge the ongoing need for support beyond the immediate aftermath of a loss and contribute to the well-being of others facing similar experiences. This option demonstrates an understanding of the complexities of grief and offers tangible assistance to those in need.
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Donating to the Deceased’s Favorite Charity
If the deceased mother had a preferred charity or cause she regularly supported, contributing to that organization in her name offers a direct way to honor her memory and continue her legacy of giving. This approach aligns with the deceased’s values and provides a sense of continuity, demonstrating respect for her philanthropic inclinations. It allows the bereaved friend to witness a continuation of their mother’s positive impact on the world, offering a source of comfort and pride during a difficult time.
Charitable donations serve as a meaningful and impactful way to support a grieving friend. By honoring the deceased mothers life, values, or the circumstances of her passing, these contributions transform a gesture of sympathy into a powerful act of remembrance and support. This approach acknowledges the enduring impact of loss while offering a path towards positive action and healing.
7. Practical Support
Practical support, in the context of providing solace after the loss of a mother, transcends traditional gift-giving. It addresses the tangible challenges that often accompany grief, acknowledging that emotional distress can significantly impact daily functioning. Offering practical assistance demonstrates a deep understanding of a bereaved individual’s needs, moving beyond symbolic gestures to provide concrete help during a period of vulnerability. This type of support alleviates burdens and allows the grieving individual to focus on emotional healing rather than logistical concerns.
Examples of practical support include meal preparation and delivery, assistance with household chores like cleaning or laundry, running errands such as grocery shopping or picking up prescriptions, providing childcare or pet care, and offering transportation assistance. These acts of service demonstrate genuine care by addressing immediate needs and reducing daily stressors. Providing a home-cooked meal, for example, not only nourishes the body but also alleviates the burden of meal planning and preparation during a time of emotional exhaustion. Offering to assist with childcare allows the grieving individual time and space to process their emotions without the added pressure of childcare responsibilities.
Understanding the significance of practical support as a form of gift-giving highlights the interconnectedness of emotional and practical well-being during grief. While emotional support remains crucial, practical assistance provides tangible relief that allows individuals to navigate the logistical challenges that often arise during periods of loss. This approach acknowledges that grief impacts all aspects of life and demonstrates a commitment to providing comprehensive support. Recognizing this interconnectedness enables more effective and meaningful support for those experiencing loss. By alleviating practical burdens, individuals can create space for emotional healing and provide a sense of stability during a turbulent time. This understanding fosters a more holistic and empathetic approach to supporting those grieving the loss of a mother.
8. Gift Cards
Gift cards, while sometimes perceived as impersonal, can offer significant practical support to a friend grieving the loss of their mother. Grief often brings unexpected expenses and logistical challenges. Gift cards provide flexibility, empowering the recipient to address specific needs arising from their circumstances. This can range from purchasing groceries and covering transportation costs to accessing self-care services like massage therapy or counseling. For example, a gift card to a grocery store alleviates the burden of meal planning and shopping during a time of emotional distress, while a gift card to a spa can encourage much-needed self-care and relaxation. This practicality makes gift cards a valuable component of support during bereavement.
The appropriateness of gift cards as a form of support stems from their ability to address individual needs without imposing expectations or adding to the emotional burden of decision-making. During grief, individuals may struggle with everyday tasks and choices. Gift cards offer a discreet and non-intrusive way to provide assistance, allowing the recipient to choose how best to utilize the support. A gift card to a local restaurant, for instance, can provide a reprieve from cooking responsibilities, while a gift card for a ride-sharing service can address transportation challenges. This adaptability acknowledges the recipient’s autonomy during a vulnerable time.
Gift cards, thoughtfully chosen, offer a practical and respectful way to support a grieving friend. Their flexibility and non-prescriptive nature empower recipients to address individual needs during a challenging period. By providing a tangible resource without adding to the emotional burden, gift cards can significantly contribute to a bereaved individual’s well-being. This approach demonstrates an understanding of the practical challenges associated with grief and offers a dignified means of providing support.
9. Homemade Gifts
Homemade gifts offer a unique avenue for expressing sympathy and support to a friend grieving the loss of their mother. The inherent personal touch embedded within handcrafted items conveys a depth of care and empathy often unmatched by commercially produced gifts. This personal investment of time and effort transforms a simple gift into a tangible representation of love and support, acknowledging the profound emotional impact of the loss. The act of creating something specifically for the grieving friend imbues the gift with a unique sentimental value, offering comfort and solace during a challenging period. For example, a hand-knitted scarf, a batch of the deceased mother’s favorite cookies, or a hand-painted piece of art reflecting shared memories can resonate deeply with the recipient, offering a tangible reminder of cherished moments and enduring connections. This personalized approach differentiates homemade gifts, making them particularly poignant expressions of sympathy.
The significance of homemade gifts in the context of bereavement stems from their ability to communicate genuine empathy and understanding. Unlike generic expressions of condolence, homemade gifts demonstrate a willingness to invest time and effort into creating something specifically tailored to the grieving friend’s needs. This personalized approach acknowledges the unique nature of the loss and the individual’s relationship with their deceased mother. A hand-written letter expressing heartfelt condolences, a curated playlist of the mother’s favorite songs, or a framed piece of calligraphy featuring a meaningful quote can offer solace and support in a way that mass-produced items often cannot. These personalized touches transform the gift into a cherished keepsake, providing a source of comfort and connection during a time of emotional vulnerability.
Homemade gifts offer a powerful way to express sympathy and provide comfort to a friend experiencing the profound grief of losing their mother. The personal touch, reflecting genuine care and empathy, elevates these gifts beyond mere objects, transforming them into tangible expressions of love and support. This understanding allows individuals to offer solace and create a lasting connection during a challenging period of loss and remembrance, demonstrating that heartfelt gestures, imbued with personal meaning, can offer profound comfort and support during times of grief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating the complexities of offering support after a loss can present challenges. This section addresses common questions regarding appropriate gifts for a friend grieving the loss of their mother.
Question 1: Is it appropriate to give a gift after a loss?
Expressing sympathy through a thoughtful gift is generally considered appropriate. The gesture demonstrates care and support during a difficult time. Sensitivity to individual preferences and cultural norms is advised.
Question 2: What types of gifts should be avoided?
Gifts that minimize the loss, offer unsolicited advice, or focus on replacing the deceased should be avoided. Similarly, overly cheerful or celebratory gifts may be perceived as insensitive. Focusing on comfort, remembrance, and practical support is generally recommended.
Question 3: When is the appropriate time to give a gift?
There is no strict timeline. Offering a gift shortly after the loss can provide immediate comfort, while waiting a few weeks allows space for initial grieving. A thoughtful gesture at any point during the bereavement period can be meaningful.
Question 4: How can one determine an appropriate gift?
Consider the individual’s personality, relationship with the deceased, and specific needs during this challenging period. Personalized, comforting, and practical gifts tend to be well-received. Reflecting on shared memories can inform gift selection.
Question 5: What if the friend declines a gift?
Respect their decision without pressure or judgment. Grief affects individuals differently, and their needs may vary. Offering alternative forms of support, such as practical assistance or simply a listening ear, can still be valuable.
Question 6: How can gifts complement other forms of support?
Gifts serve as tangible expressions of sympathy, complementing other forms of support, such as offering condolences, providing practical assistance, or simply being present. A combined approach demonstrates comprehensive care and understanding during a difficult time.
Offering support after a loss requires empathy and consideration. Thoughtful gifts, combined with genuine expressions of sympathy, can provide comfort and solace during a challenging period of grief and healing.
The next section will delve deeper into specific gift recommendations categorized by type, offering practical guidance for selecting the most appropriate and meaningful gift for a friend grieving the loss of their mother.
Tips for Choosing a Gift
Selecting an appropriate gift for a friend grieving the loss of their mother requires careful consideration and empathy. These tips offer guidance on navigating this sensitive situation with grace and understanding.
Tip 1: Consider Shared Memories: Gifts referencing shared experiences or inside jokes can provide comfort and evoke positive emotions associated with the deceased. A framed photograph of a happy memory or a custom-made item featuring a shared interest can be deeply meaningful.
Tip 2: Prioritize Comfort and Support: During grief, physical and emotional comfort are paramount. Soft blankets, cozy pajamas, or self-care items like bath salts or aromatherapy candles can provide solace and promote relaxation.
Tip 3: Offer Practical Assistance: Grief often disrupts daily routines. Practical gifts like meal delivery services, house cleaning services, or gift cards for essential errands can alleviate burdens and provide tangible support.
Tip 4: Personalize the Gift: A personalized touch adds a layer of meaning and demonstrates thoughtful consideration. Engraved jewelry, custom photo albums, or handwritten letters expressing condolences can make a gift more impactful.
Tip 5: Choose Experiences Over Material Possessions: Experiences, such as a spa day, a weekend getaway, or tickets to a concert, offer opportunities for distraction, connection, and the creation of new, positive memories.
Tip 6: Respect Cultural and Religious Customs: Be mindful of cultural and religious practices surrounding bereavement. Certain gifts, such as flowers or specific types of food, may be appropriate or inappropriate depending on the individual’s background.
Tip 7: Avoid Replacing the Deceased: Refrain from gifts that attempt to replace the deceased mother or minimize the significance of the loss. Focus instead on honoring her memory and providing support to the grieving friend.
Tip 8: Consider a Charitable Donation: Donating to a cause the deceased mother supported can be a meaningful gesture that honors her memory while contributing to a worthy organization.
Thoughtful gift selection demonstrates empathy and provides tangible support during a period of profound grief. By focusing on comfort, remembrance, and practical assistance, individuals can offer solace and demonstrate genuine care for their grieving friend.
The following conclusion summarizes key takeaways and offers final thoughts on supporting a friend through the grieving process.
Supporting a Grieving Friend
Navigating appropriate support for a friend after the loss of a mother requires sensitivity and understanding. This exploration has highlighted the importance of offering comfort, acknowledging the loss, and providing practical assistance during a period of intense grief. Thoughtful gifts, carefully chosen to reflect the individual’s needs and the deceased’s memory, can offer solace and demonstrate genuine care. Whether personalized items, comforting presents, experiences promoting healing, or charitable donations honoring the deceased, the focus remains on providing tangible support during a challenging time. Practical assistance, addressing everyday burdens, further complements emotional support, acknowledging the multifaceted impact of grief.
Ultimately, supporting a grieving friend involves recognizing individual needs and offering genuine empathy. Tangible expressions of support, combined with a willingness to listen and offer comfort, contribute significantly to the healing process. These acts of kindness, though seemingly small, can provide a sense of stability and hope during a period of profound loss and transition. Remembering the deceased and celebrating their life while supporting the bereaved underscores the enduring power of human connection during times of grief.
