What Do You Say...

What do you say when a baby dies and someone says...
"At least you didn't bring it home."
What do you say when a baby is stillborn and someone says...
"At least it never lived."
What do you say when a mother of three says...
"Think of all the time you'll have."
What do you say when so many say...
"You can always have another."
What do you say when someone says...nothing?
What do you say when someone says..."I'm sorry."
You say, with grateful tears and warm embrace, "Thank you!"

We all need "Kleenex & candle" friends when we suffer loss. Compassionate companions who give us permission to cry and offer a Kleenex or their tears. When the darkness of discouragement comes they encircle us. Our heroes of hope light the way to brighter tomorrows and to the One who is truth and our eternal encouragement. And at the right season, we can pass on what we have received to others...a Kleenex and a candle.
Kathe Wunnenberg in Grieving the Child I Never Knew

Lord, please bring Jonathon and I "Kleenex and candle" friends who can continue to walk with us through the pain. Grant us the courage to forgive those who have said insensitive things in their well-meaning attempts to soothe our pain. Thank you to all of our friends who have cried with us or brought us light in the darkness. We couldn't have carried this burden without you!