• unassuming, unjudging company
• calm, uninterrupted silence
• a long and tender embrace
• a friendly hand to hold
• permission to cry freely
• a change of perspective
• time away
• attentive listening with no intent to rationalize or reply
• a heartfelt reminder of precisely what they mean and how wonderful they truly are
• reassurance that things will eventually get better, and examples of ways this may happen
• subtle encouragement to remember all the beautiful things in life... a surprise hike in the woods, a picnic at the park, etc; preferably something they enjoy
• a reminder that God is the greatest of healers, acquainted with every pain, aware of every heartache... and that He knows.
• dua'as and positive energy
• a comforting massage
• a soft, huggable blanket, stuffed animal, or pillow
• a favorite meal
• aromatherapy
• as much rest & sleep as possible
• surprise gifts/kind gestures
• help with their responsibilities/stressors without needing to ask
• helping them uncover the true root of the issue, and letting them know it's perfectly okay/reasonable for them to be upset... but also assuring them that the sadness won't last forever
• a firm, sincere reminder that you'll always, unconditionally, under any circumstance, love, accept, and support them
• sincere assurance that they can acknowledge their true emotions without feeling selfish, foolish, or degraded
• a childish distraction
• simple reasons to smile & laugh
• help with forgiving themselves if it's a matter of guilt or regret
• the company of a kind child or nurturing animal
• boundless, unrestrained sympathy. i should never let my ego, biases, or irritability get in the way of my empathy for a fellow being.

x r