Awkwardness Buster

What do I say?  I don't want to screw things up and say something stupid.  I feel awkward. 

It's what people are thinking but only your close friends tell you it's actually happening.  I know it can feel incredibly awkward at times.  It's awkward for me too - especially when people avoid me because they don't know what to say.

My friend Linda gives the best awkwardness buster, "Just talk to her.  She's still the same person.  She's still Kristin.  She just had something tragic happen to her."

It's true.  I am fundamentally the same person.  Sure, I have an obvious scar over my heart and deep pain that oozes out sometimes.  But I still like to laugh.  I still like to connect with people.  I still like to hear other people's stories.  I still like to help others .  I still get impatient.  I still like puns.  I am still Kristin, just with an even deeper desire to connect with people for I know life isn't about to-do lists.  It's about relationships - loving and being loved. 

The best thing you can do for someone who is hurting is be there.  Be with them.  Let them know you care. Let them know you are thinking about them.  You can't take away their pain, but you can soothe their pain with your loving presence. 

And don't feel uncomfortable talking about my boy, for nothing brings me greater joy than to know other people remember him too!