I feel so terrible for my landlady. She had lost her daughter right after Thanksgiving. She had lost her husband the same way and the same age (60). Still am not sure what caused her death as my landlady speaks broken English (she’s Italian) but I think it was from an aneurysm. I hear her cry at times in the early morning when it’s quiet. I don’t know what to do as I want to just go and hug her. She isn’t that type. She likes to keep to herself. I just feel helpless
@Patti1120
That’s tough. So sad.
If she’s anything like me, do nothing.
I’d be embarrassed to know someone likely heard me crying.
@Anouk oh no I would never. It just makes me so sad that I am not able to take her pain away. I always want to help but I know this is something I unfortunately won’t be able to do.
@Patti1120 @Anouk You can't, of course. I would be inclined to bring her food, since that's how my culture shows care, but YMMV.
@Notokay @Anouk I was thinking food. She’s Italian so I am intimidated lol. She cooks pretty dang good. But maybe sweet or something simple. Thank you. I really want to try and put a smile on her face or at least show her I’m here if she needs my shoulder to cry on. She has before so maybe I need to now
@Patti1120 @Notokay @Anouk some people prefer to be alone in their grief. It gives them space to act in any way they can to help relieve the suffering without being judged. I would say a note in Italian expressing your condolences would be most appropriate. I am fluent so if you need an extra check after Google translate, please DM me.
@Patti1120 @Anouk Yes. A simple coffee cake, even store bought, works. It is the enticement to eat, to commit again to life, that can be important. When one is grieving, one can forget to eat. The act of someone showing up with food--of whatever variety--can be hugely meaningful.