
When people are going through tough times and we want to help them feel better and restore hope, what do we do? How can we best serve them when they have lost everything?
Restoring hope after a devastating tragedy is complicated. It varies for everyone, depending on their circumstances, how they view life, and how solid their foundation is. For those of us on the outside looking in and trying to help, we must be patient and supportive of those who are in pain and suffering.
Do not tell them what they should have done. Instead of looking back, let’s help them move forward by providing resources and advice that meet them where they are right now. Let’s take the restoration process one day at a time to help them rebuild and start over.
When we stop and look at the word “restore,” it means to bring something back to its original state or condition. However, not everyone will want to go back to the way things were; they may want to start fresh. For others, they may be holding onto memories built over generations and have no idea how they will ever get back to that point.
Healing comes with a fresh start, but closure and time may still be needed. To be restored or renewed first starts with the mind. Some of our friends and colleagues are experiencing mental strain or depression, which is understandable given the recent fires. We need to help them heal emotionally from the trauma they’ve just endured.
When helping or serving others, always try to put yourself in their shoes. Be patient with them and help them build resilience and practice self-care while navigating the process. Let them know they can lean on others and reach out to the community for assistance.
Restoring hope to someone after a loss takes patience. It’s important to be present and listen. Sometimes, especially in the beginning, all people want, or need is to be heard and understood. Let them feel free to express their feelings and vent if they need to. Be kind and validate their emotions, especially their pain.
Avoid being condescending in any way, and if you’ve experienced something similar, don’t hesitate to share your story. This is the difference between empathy and sympathy. Once you understand where they are, how they feel, and what they need, offer support to address their immediate needs.
Encourage them to stay strong and not give up. Let them know every small victory brings them closer to rebuilding. If possible, give them a goal to aim for—something that will show progress and keep their hope alive.
In the weeks and months following a tragedy, check in with friends and loved ones to see how they’re holding up and if there’s anything more you can do for them. Encourage them to take care of their health and spirits. Help them connect with others who have experienced something similar, so they can receive emotional support from people who are also on the road to recovery.
Helping others regain hope is a journey, and we must be patient as we assist them in feeling whole again. One thing is certain: if we have breath, we have hope for a brighter tomorrow.
Former President Barack Obama said, “The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something. Don’t wait for good things to happen to you. If you go out and make some good things happen, you will fill the world with hope, you will fill yourself with hope.”
Let’s work together to ensure our neighbors don’t feel hopeless and remind them that brighter days are ahead.
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on.
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is a life strategist, coach, consultant, author, and speaker.