B is for...10 Best Things to say when you Don't know What to Say
by Shelly Burke, RN, Author, and Publisher of the "Nebraska Family Times" newspaper
"I just do not know what to say." How often have you said or thought that when faced with a difficult situation? First of all, know that when a friend or acquaintance is faced with the death of a child, the ending of a marriage, a devastating diagnosis, job loss, or other tragedy, there are no "magic" words, no words that will "make it all better." What is important is that you acknowledge their heartache and show them that they are not alone.
“I’m so sorry!”
“You are in my thoughts and prayers”
“What can I do for you?”
“It’s OK to cry/scream/laugh.”
“It’s OK to be mad/sad/upset/confused.”
“There are many people who love and support you”
“This is a terrible time for you, but I know you can do what you have to do.”
“I am here any time you want to talk/e-mail/cry.”
“I am your friend and I will support you and be here for you no matter what!”
NOTHING--just give a hug or sit quietly and listen.
“Do not be anxious about…what you ought to say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.” Luke 12:12
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by Shelly Burke, RN, Author, and Publisher of the "Nebraska Family Times" newspaper
No matter what the situation or circumstance, one or more of these statements
are the ‘right’ thing to say.
“I’m so sorry!”
“You are in my thoughts and prayers”
“What can I do for you?”“It’s OK to cry/scream/laugh.”
“It’s OK to be mad/sad/upset/confused.”
“There are many people who love and support you”
“This is a terrible time for you, but I know you can do what you have to do.”
“I am here any time you want to talk/e-mail/cry.”
“I am your friend and I will support you and be here for you no matter what!”
NOTHING--just give a hug or sit quietly and listen.
“Do not be anxious about…what you ought to say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.” Luke 12:12
(The post for next Thursday, April 9th, will cover "The Holy Spirit; Asking Him to Guide Your Words." Click "Follow by email" in the right sidebar to receive notification of
all new posts.)
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This post is an excerpt from
“What
Should I Say? The Right (and Wrong!) Words and Deeds for Life’s Sticky, Tricky
Uncomfortable Situations” by Shelly Burke, RN.
Coming soon! Download “What
Should I Say” and be prepared for any of life’s sticky, tricky uncomfortable
situations!
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Nebraska Family Times, 209 27th St. Apt. #13, Columbus, NE 68601.
I am also
taking the Blogging A to Z Challenge at
where the theme is "Lifehacks for Christian Moms"
This is a really good post. I'm writing my A to Z Challenge posts on IVF/ICSI treatment and infertility is one of those things that people often don't know what to say when they find out it's something you're struggling with.
ReplyDeleteMy usual standby response is 'I'm thinking of you/your family' I think it covers things nicely and let's someone know that you're there for them.
Cait @ Click's Clan
Thank you for your comment! That is a great response to any situation as well. Will be checking out your blog!
DeleteGreat suggestions. Too often people just avoid contact when they don't know what to say. A simple phrase that tells people you care is often all that is needed.
ReplyDeleteA-to-Z Participant
www.passporttobrilliance.com
www.creativecaravanclub.com
And avoiding contact can be very hurtful as well. Thank you for your comment!
Delete