Dealing with Death and Coping with Bereavement

It is sad though that in some cases people die without reaching the final stage which is supposed to be the best disposition in order to have a peaceful death. Further, it must be noted that these stages are not only experienced by the dying person but also by those who love him. It is therefore important that people should know how to process themselves or to help others move on to the stage of acceptance. I know this is easier said than done. No one can really measure the grief of bereavement, but through this, at least people will be able to know that death is a natural experience and that everyone must learn how to let go.

For the bereaved, the following suggestions are recommended. First, they should externalize grief. They should be given enough time to grieve and to express it in a healthy way. This opens a cathartic experience. Second, resolve hidden guilt feelings. Make the necessary efforts to be relieved from whatever unresolved issues. Confession can truly help. Third, participate in emancipating activities and relationships. Do not allow grief to be in control. Let it pass but do not keep it. Find the beauty of the world in others. Forth, look towards other sources of strength. Other loved ones and primarily God, are people’s sources of strength. If faith in God and in other loved ones is kept burning, then sorrow will be overcome. Finally, look forward to the resurrection. Our faith tells us death is but momentary. One day we will all be reunited, and indeed it would be the grandest reunion of all times with the Lord in our midst. So let us lives by “living” out our faith and being ready, let us not spoil it by constantly fearing death.