This is an email from young friends whose baby is returning to the Lord. V is about 115 days old. Here is the most recent email from her parents. I think it is an excellent representation of what people feel and think when someone they know is passing on. They are saying what most people cannot say themselves. So, when you know someone who is passing on or whose family or friend is dying, reread this, and follow their request.
"We wanted to add something at the risk of sounding rude, but hopefully it will be helpful to some. People often say, "I don't know what to say," so they don't say anything or don't call or write. The thing that has brought us this far is the love and support of friends and family--you are the hands of Jesus to us. Please don't stop communicating just because you don't know what to say (though try to avoid, "It'll be all right," or, "Are you over it yet?" or, "She's in a better place now," because those aren't really words of comfort at a time like this). We already feel so empty knowing our girl is slipping away...we need the constant support of friends and family to help us work through this grief. We aren't great at phone calls at this time (we can't talk on our phone in the room--it will interfere with the monitors) but we do appreciate the letters and calls and emails we have received from you. We want to talk about V. because we want to remember her and never forget our little treasure. We just wanted you to know how much your support has meant to us both and how much we will continue to rely upon it."
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