It is in the dark times that the light of friendship shines brightest.
Richard Paul Evans
When my mom was killed by a distracted driver, in 2009, I had so many people say, “let me know if there is anything you need”. I had no idea what I needed – I was in shock and frozen with grief.
The next day, my best friend was with me and made a list of things she was going to do to support me. She took me to my doctor’s appointment, shopped for a black dress and brought me a few options, bought groceries, organized a meal train and drove 3 hours to the funeral so she could help with our toddler. I will always be grateful.
When I created the greeting card based on the painting, Wave of Emotion, I was purposeful in not designing it as a sympathy card, although it can certainly be used as one. Life can be downright rough, and we need support. The card’s intent is to acknowledge your friend or loved one’s emotions and allows you to list ways you can support them.
If someone is going through an emotional time, even small, tangible acts of support can make a huge difference.
Here are some meaningful ideas to help:
Practical Help
- Bring or send meals (homemade or takeout)—one less thing for them to think about.
- Offer to run errands (groceries, post office, pharmacy).
- Help with housework—laundry, dishes, vacuuming.
- Walk their dog or care for pets if they need a break.
- Drive them to appointments or pick up prescriptions.
- Offer to help with kids if they’re a parent and need some downtime.
Thoughtful Gestures
- Drop off a care package (snacks, cozy socks, a candle, a handwritten note).
- Send a card or letter just to say, “I’m thinking of you.”
- Give a gift card for food, coffee, or self-care (spa, streaming service, etc.).
- Create a playlist or share uplifting content that might brighten their day.
- Schedule a monthly date so they don’t start to isolate.
- Help organize support if needed (like starting a meal train or group text).
Emotional Support
- Check in regularly—a simple “how are you today?” goes a long way.
- Listen without trying to fix things. Sometimes they just need to vent.
- Remind them they’re not alone and that it’s okay to not be okay.
- Sit with them in silence, if that’s all they need.
- Invite them out for a walk or coffee—low-pressure and comforting.
If you know them well, tailor your help to their style and needs. Sometimes the best support is just consistently showing up—quietly, gently, and without judgment.
Have thoughts to add to the list or interested in purchasing the greeting card? Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you.
