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I Don’t Know What to Say! What Should I Say

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The first time you meet a friend who has recently lost a spouse or other family member, you find it very difficult to know what to say.  Remember that your friend probably feels similarly out of their depth while carrying a heavy load of grief.  Take the initiative and reach out first. 

Start with saying that you are sorry about their loss of a loved one – and say their name.

Relate a happy memory of the person who has recently died.  Sharing these stories helps the grieving move through their struggle to cope with their new life.  Don’t deny the past – it is part of what makes us who we are and our shared history.

Focus on asking how the survivor is coping.  Don’t just say, “Let me know if there is anything I can do for you.”  Give some examples of things you would be prepared to do: Can I take you to the store or out to lunch?  Can I do your ironing?  Would you like me to mow your yard?  “Think about it and let me know”.  Then follow up later by phone to repeat the offer.

If words fail you, a hug can say so much!  Those who are grieving are also missing physical contact.

 Reflections of Life Articles: Winter 2023

Rockin the Sunset

The 2023 Rockin the Sunset Concert for a Cause is almost here! This year we are featuring the sounds of the legendary Sir Elton John presented by Greggie and the Jets. The evening will be fun for all ages. Wear your favorite Elton John inspired outfit for a chance to win prizes. February 24th at …

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On My Honor

“On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.” – Scout Oath. The Scouts from troops 525 and 4117 who came to volunteer their …

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Gift of Leadership

St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care and St. Francis Reflections Foundation are both nonprofit organizations lead by volunteer boards. Each board member commits to serve up to nine years to help St. Francis best serve those who need end of life care. Some might call them the invisible heroes. They attend meetings and contribute their talents …

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Getting Ready to DASH Again

It was a cool morning at the Veterans Memorial Center on the Indian River as the horn sounded for the start of the first annual 2022 DASH in Life 5k on November 12. There were over 170 registrants and many cheering friends, family members and volunteers all along the beautiful course to provide encouragement and …

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Holiday, Hope, and Happy Moments

For the first time in several years, the staff at St. Francis Reflections was able to get together for some holiday fun, enjoying great food and white elephant gifts. A time to visit, laugh and thanks to Tammy Rolfe try their hand at fused glass. Senior leadership was on hand and they brought some of …

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Affirming Life

There are those who find it difficult to discuss the purposes of hospice. For us, hospice is our every day. We consider it affirming to be a part of those last months and days. We know much can happen to create wonderful moments and to help people with personal wishes, closure, and putting their houses …

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Welcoming Warriors Home

Our commitments in life comes with purpose. At St. Francis Reflections, through our We Honor Veterans program we are deliberate in our yearly welcome home to our Vietnam Veterans. This commitment is to rectify and restore that which did not happen when our individual heroes returned home. During that politically charged time, Veterans suffered emotional …

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