DEAR ABBY: I am 14, and my best friend's brother died recently. The football season will be starting soon, and one of our favorite things to do is hang out at football games. My friend mentioned that it's going to be hard for her, since her brother used to play. (Her brother was 17.) He was smart and funny and a great football player.
I was wondering if you have any suggestions on how I can make this year her best one ever, and what to do when we are at football games and she is feeling sad. -- CARING FRIEND IN SOUTH CAROLINA
DEAR CARING FRIEND: The kindest thing you could do for your friend is let her know that if she wants to talk about her brother, you will be there to listen to what she needs to say. Too often, people are afraid to listen and try to change the subject because it makes them uncomfortable.
You can also make a point of including your friend in any activities you can share, but if she doesn't feel up to joining you, tell her you understand and will ask her again.