I have attended three funerals in about the same amount of months. All three were very different. All were for men in different stages of life; a grandfather, a father, an infant son. Words cannot describe the grief and sorrow that was evident. I have sincerely struggled with what to say to the loved ones that were left behind. “I am sorry” does not seem enough. I cannot say “It will be okay” because it is not okay and I can not make it okay. I cannot answer the question “why?” I ask that myself. I feel so inadequate trying to offer my condolences. I desperately want to offer comfort but I don’t know if I can.
These words stood out to me as I read Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl: “To live is to suffer, to survive is to find meaning in suffering” and “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how” from Nietzsche.
Although those words may seem hollow when in the middle of suffering I hope my friends and family will find meaning and why in the dark days ahead.
2 comments:
I just love you! You don't have to say anything! You said it best yourself when you recounted our experience as little kids. Sometimes the only thing you can do is sit beside your friend and let them know you are there. That's what brings comfort - knowing that people are there and that they care.
Oh wow. I just read a post from another blog that I follow (http://www.natalienortonphoto.com/2009/06/my-favorite-book.html) and immediately knew I wanted to read that book. After reading this post of yours I know I REALLY need to read this book.
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