When a significant day like Valentine’s Day approaches, a person who has lost a loved one will almost certainly feel the loved one’s absence more acutely, whether the loss was recent or long ago. One way to offer the grieving person a special gift on that day is by calling or sending a note, letter, or card. You can simply say that you were thinking of him or her—and then share a heartfelt thought or favorite memory about the lost loved one. Sometimes people worry that mentioning the loss will hurt the grieving person. Most often, the person will greatly appreciate your remembering and caring. Of course, you can do this any day of the year, but your care will be especially meaningful on special days, which are often difficult times for those who are grieving. And remember, when you reach out to a hurting person, you are not alone. As Stephen Ministers learn in their training, Christ is at work in and through you to bring hope and healing to the other person.
Good caring! Cordially in Christ,
Kenneth C. Haugk, Co-Founder Stephen Ministries
A special message from Kenneth: “January 19 marked the anniversary of the death of my wife, Joan—mother of our daughters, Charity and Amity, and cofounder of Stephen Ministries. Shortly after Joan died, I wrote an article titled “It’s Okay to Talk about Joan.” I wanted to share it with you because it describes a simple yet profound way that we can warm the heart of a friend or relative who has lost someone dear.”