An open letter to bereaved parent.... excerpted from Ann Landers(Ref Footprints newsletter)

I won't say,"I know how you feel"----because I don't.I've lost parents,grandparents,aunts,uncles and friends,but I've never lost a child.So how can I say I know how you feel?

I won't say,"You'll get over it"---because you won't.Life will have to go on.The washing,cooking,cleaning,the common routine.These chores will take your mind off your loved one,but the hurt will still be there.

I won't say,"never mind,you're young enough to have another baby"---because that won't help.A new baby cannot replace the one you've lost.A new baby will fill your hours,keep you busy,give you sleepless nights.But it will not replace the one you've lost.

You may hear all these platitudes from your friends and relatives.They think they are helping.They don't know what else to say.You will find out who your true friends are at this time.Many will avoid you because they can't face you.Others will talk about the weather,the holidays and the school concert but never about your child.Never about how you're coping.

So what will I say?

I will say,"I'm here.I care.Anytime.Anywhere."I'll cry with you if need be.I'll talk about your loved one.We'll laugh about the good memories.I won't mind how long you grieve.I won't tell you to pull yourself together.

No,I don't know how you feel---but with sharing,perhaps I will learn a little of what you are going through.And perhaps you will feel comfortable with me and find your burden has eased.Try me.