Unexpected Death

[Resa]

I was just informed of a coworker's husband's unexpected death in a car accident this weekend. I am shocked and saddened. I sent a message to my principal to see if there is anything we can do for the family. Her son is a student at our high school. He isn't in my classes, but it's a small school and I'm sure a lot of my students know the family. I'll probably find out more about what's going on Monday... Please keep them in your thoughts. Thank you!

[deity]

How did everyone take the news? Was there support offered at the school?

[Resa]

It was very sad... many of our students know the student, and knew his father and know his mother. It's a heavily religious area, so most people kept talking about keeping them in their prayers, praying for them, going to the viewing and funeral mass... A lot of the staff went to the viewing and/or funeral, I didn't want to go. It's hard enough going to a funeral for a family member as it is. It wasn't something looked down upon, as most of the staff couldn't take a personal day to go to the funeral anyway.

As far as I know, our social workers and counselors were made available to any students or staff who wanted to partake. Those staff members (as most of our staff) try to be a bit more unbiased about religious views, yet supportive if/when anyone wants to discuss related issues.

It's hard to talk to her now, because she is cosntantly making comments about how he's in a better place, how god wanted him to be in heaven, and the common cliches that go with death and religion (i.e. god won't put more on my shoulders than I can bear)... I offer comfort and companionship if that's what she seems to want or need, I tell her I'm thinking of her and her son.