Helping a Friend Going Through a Separation

I am more familiar with dealing with grief, my husband passed away. One of my closest friends is going through a divorce from her husband of 40 years. I have no idea how to console her. Ideas?

Dear Mourning Angel,

My suggestion to you is this. Having read your other post regarding your husband, it is clear that you cannot deal with another's pain. Please focus on yourself because two negatives certainly don't make a positive. Surround yourself with love and when you're feeling blue - get up and get out of the house! Go for a walk, plant something, or buy yourself something you'll look great in! Remember, you can't take on the weight of the world, you have to take care of yourself.

Mourning Angel, although your experience with your husband was quite different, you can help your friend. She too is mourning. But her loss isthe relationship. Be a good listener and share with her advice on how you coped with the loss of your husband. The methods can transfer. Good luck to you and your friend.

Dear mourningangel, I agree that you need to be a good listener to your friend. Who knows...helping her may even help you in some way. Good luck.