Dear Patrish,

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. As you may know, my mom passed away two years ago this upcoming January. I still wind up crying once in awhile when something catches me just right, an old photograph, a particular poem, etc.

I know she is aware of us, her children, and I talk to her now and then. I've also found writing a letter or two to a friend or family member who has passed to be of great comfort and help.

One thing that really helped me with mom, is I *saw* her long departed parents and siblings waiting for her and greeting her, enfolding her in their love and rejoicing in her joining them, as she "shuffled off this mortal coil." It was an extraordinary thing to see and it did ease the pain of knowing that she was gone. I was not actually there with her, as it was unexpected and I lived 4 hours away, but I found out later, it was at the time that she died that I saw her go to her family. Perhaps your friend had loved ones to go to, which it might help you to visualise?

Also, give yourself plenty of time to grieve, without wallowing into a state of depression, and pamper yourself, try not to rush tings, take time out for a long soak in the tub, to read a special poem or book, and to do some of the things you and she enjoyed together. Ask her along and see what you *feel.* Most of all, I found it helped tremendousaly to give thanks that mom was released from the pain and suffering she'd been going through.

Hope this helps,

luvyakat