DEAR ABBY: My sister-in-law has only a few months to live. She's called everyone in the family to explain her situation and to express her last wishes here on Earth. We are grateful she has been granted this time to take care of loose ends and to express her feelings.
Since we are never taught how to deal with death, what do you say to someone you love, who is dying, to make them feel better about themselves?
My conversations with her feel awkward and forced. I feel tongue-tied and at a loss for words. I think about her daily and want to call her, but what can I say? -- AT A LOSS FOR WORDS
DEAR AT A LOSS: Talk about the good times. Let her know she has made a difference. Point out the positive achievements of her life, all the people who know and love her, her personal and business successes, and what her presence has meant to the people whose lives she has touched and always will. It's OK to cry. Tears are healing, and it will be therapeutic for both of you.