Just a quick word on something that will help in ways I cannot describe. Support others through their trials and triumphs. Bad news about a friend? Call or better yet, drive over. Ask "is there anything I can do?" Stop worrying about whether they want to be alone, if they will be offended or mad. It might be an invasion to them...that will become apparent. Or it might nourish their soul to know someone outside of their immediate trial is thinking of them.
Throughout my divorce and after, I am saddened by the friends I have lost because they feel awkward, and do not want to offend either me or my ex-husband. But I am also heartened by the people who have stepped up and invaded my life.
If it crosses your mind to contact someone in a trial, please do. Trust yourself and go for it. And get over yourself....it's OK if you make someone mad or hurt their pride by asking if they need help. If they get over it, you will have a friend who knows you support them and care. If they don't, you have vital information on how solid that friendship was in the first place. Amen.
