DEAR ABBY: I have taken to heart your suggestions regarding how to help oneself come out of bereavement; that is, to do volunteer work.
My husband died of cancer last March. He was able to remain at home to the end with the help of hospice, which was a godsend.
My parents live on the East Coast and I am way out here on the West Coast, but I have been able to get beyond this with the help of friends and the bereavement support group connected with the hospital. I focused on giving back to society by volunteering at the hospital. Since I work five days a week, I can only do this on Saturday or Sunday, so I am now the receptionist for four hours every Saturday in the intensive care unit.
It has been such a rewarding experience. I have been able to help people simply by being there. At the end of my shift, I feel as though I have been meditating.
I just wanted to let you know that your suggestion to do volunteer work has helped me. -- SHIRLEY IN ELMIRA, ORE.
DEAR SHIRLEY: It gives me great pleasure to know that you were able to lighten your burden because of something you read in my column. Bless you.