Tips for Visiting a Dying Friend

Posted on January 14, 2019 by admin under funeral home
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Life is full of twists and turns, circumstance and happenstance, and good days and bad days. Things can get particularly trying when situations like death are thrown into the mix. While death is a fact of life and will hit close to home at some point, it can still be difficult to deal with. This can especially be the case if you learn that a good friend is dying and has only a short time to live. In such cases, you’ll want to visit before the inevitable death leads to a St. Johns, OH funeral service. Here are some tips for visiting a dying friend…before it’s too late.  

Don’t Beat Around the Bush 

You definitely don’t want to beat around the bush. Your friend knows the prognosis, so there’s no need to act as though you don’t. So ask your friend how they are feeling. Asking questions is one of the best ways to get your friend to open up and to share as much as they feel comfortable sharing. Be on the lookout for signs that you might be prying too much. If you’re good at picking up tone and expressions, you’ll be fine.  

Listen More than You Talk 

It’s been said that we can learn a lot from the fact that we were born with two ears but only one mouth. In other words, we should aim to listen twice as much as we talk…or at least listen more than we speak. When visiting your dying friend, be an active listener. Maybe your friend simply wants to be around someone who will listen. You can be that source of support.  

Reach Out and Touch 

You may not be much for hugs – and your friend might not be either. But if the situation calls for a hug, then do so. You might instead decide to place a comforting hand on their shoulder to show support, understanding and empathy.  

Don’t Overwhelm 

While you don’t want to rush through a visit, you also don’t want to stay too long. Your friend, after all, may not be up to a long visit. If you’re able, you can make plans for a follow-up visit in the future. This will allow both of you to talk and to share with one another.  

You can bet that it can be difficult to look into the eyes of a friend who is terminally ill. But visiting your friend and lending your support is the sort of thing a good friend should do. You would want friends to pay you such a courtesy if you were on your death bed.  

At Eley Funeral Home & Crematory, we understand that death is one of those things that we all must face. We’re here to help you during some of life’s most trying situations. We specialize in helping grieving families to plan funerals or cremations to honor their dead. Call us at (419) 738-7676 for a free consultation on your needs for St. Johns, OH funeral services. You can also visit us at 1102 Lincoln Ave, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 to speak to someone in person. 

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