1. Saying anything is better than saying nothing at all. Even if you feel awkward, it's better to say something and let them know you care. I cannot stress this enough, the worst thing you can do is say nothing. It doesn't even have to be verbal: a hug, a card, any gesture to show you're thinking about them. Even if it's someone you hardly know, just do it! It will mean more to them than you could know.

2. Remember everyone deals with grief in their own way. Be patient. They may do or say things you don't understand. Their reaction to grief may not be what you consider normal for the situation, but there is no "normal". There is no logical. It's survival.

3. There isn't a timeline for grief. I remember people offering an ear to listen if I wanted to talk. The truth was I had nothing to say. I was still coming to terms in my own mind, trying to grasp all the emotions that had built up over the months prior. It wasn't until months, years, later that I had any desire to discuss it. By then no one else was thinking of it anymore. The world goes on even when yours stops. People go about their lives and they forget, but the grieving person never forgets.

4. It's ok to ask them about it. Grief doesn't have an expiration date. If the grieving person isn't ready to talk, give them some time. Don't be afraid to ask them about it later on. A lot of times people have a desire to talk, they just need to know someone wants to listen.