Always Remember

Always Remember

God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

“I want you to know that I’m praying for you and your family today. Katrina was a light in a dark world. I still remember.”

The message came through as I woke early on the anniversary morning of my sister’s death. It’s been several years since she passed, and yet each year I receive a message from this friend reminding me that she has not forgotten my sister or our loss. I wiped away tears as I sent back a quick reply, thanking her for remembering and for praying. It feels so good to be known and remembered. A little while later another message came through on social media from someone else who was remembering and praying for me. I smiled as I sent a thank-you in response.

Years earlier when I’d been training for a hospice program, I’d learned to always ask people their loved one’s name and then refer to that person in conversation by name. This is important because it is a way to honor the loved one who is no longer alive, and it’s a lesson I’ve not since forgotten. And after losing my sister, I understand why it is so important for people to still speak about the deceased, especially by name. It matters greatly to those of us who are missing them and still grieving the loss, even years later.

How many of us can relate to losing a loved one? Or know someone close to us who has recently lost someone who was dear to them? We can offer comfort to those around us in the way that we listen and in the way that we remember those who are gone. Don’t underestimate the significance a few simple words of concern can have for someone who is grieving, even if it is many years later. I believe your friend will be grateful that you still remember their loved one.

— Kendra

— Today’s Act of Friendship —

Reach out to a friend who is grieving and offer them comfort by sharing a memory you have of their loved one (and, please, call them by name).