Or something similar, like...
1. My brother is being sent to military school
2. My dad passed away
3. My dog passed away
You get the idea.
I never know what to say in these situations, and I want to avoid awkwardness.
2006-12-02 17:27:29 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Family & Relationships ➔ Friends
"I'm so sorry to hear that. What can I do to help out?"
2006-12-02 17:30:06 · answer #1 · answered by bashnick 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Start by saying your sorry for their loss and ask if there is anything you can do for that person. Then leave it up to the person to let you know if they want to talk or tell you if they need something. Don't every say you know how you feel because everyone grieves differently. As far as the brother going to military school just listen to the person if they feel like talking about it.
2006-12-02 17:33:18 · answer #2 · answered by D 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I just accept the awkwardness of the situation... Just talk frankly about it. A guy I work with went to see his dying uncle in law. I said "What do you say in that situation Jim? Hey, hows it going? Whatchya been up to? I'll see you later. Lets get together some time. Have a good day." Joking with him made him feel better. He died a few days ago and when Jim told me today, I just mumbled "That sucks". Don't make a big deal about it and it wont be a big deal... But, then again I'm heartless...
2006-12-02 17:35:31 · answer #3 · answered by Steve-o 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Tell whomever that you're very sorry. That is all you can or should say, unless you know them well enough to also say that things will get better over time.. Only time heals those sorts of hurts. But just saying your sorry is good enough. Then say no more unless they volunteer something personal, about their feelings and then respond honestly to that too...
2006-12-02 18:26:48 · answer #4 · answered by Golfcarmel 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Awkwardness is great, it gives the person suffering loss the chance to unload - far better than unloading to the ones that have been there, done that. Don't question the right or wrong in situations like your example, there is no right/wrong way to handle this.
2006-12-02 17:46:08 · answer #5 · answered by renclrk 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just say, "sorry that happened" and just show them you care. It's very easy.
2006-12-02 17:29:46 · answer #6 · answered by Paul W 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm sorry for your trouble.
I'm sorry, that sounds really hard.
Gee, that's awful.
2006-12-02 17:45:08 · answer #7 · answered by heart o' gold 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋