Dear Marie:
I'm feeling confused about
how to respond to questions my friends and family ask. My husband died three
months ago and I'm still having a hard time with it. I get a lot of questions
about how I'm feeling and they make me uncomfortable. I know this is what
people are supposed to ask, but I don’t ever know what to say or how much.
Usually I'm the person who helps my
friends and family through difficult times. Now the table is turned and even
though I know they mean well, I feel really vulnerable talking about my true
feelings with them. So what should I do? How should I respond to people asking
me how I feel?
Should I be honest?
-Lost and Confused in New York
Dear Lost and Confused:
I'm so sorry for your loss – you're
going through a very difficult time. I understand your concern about talking to
friends and family about how you're really feeling.
Especially when you've been the one
they have come to for advice and help. I'm sure it also took a lot of courage
to reach out for help by writing to me. Now you have to use this same courage
with friends and family.
Talking with friends and family
about your feelings is the best medicine for healing your heart.
Warm Regards,
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