There Is No Good Card for This:  What to Say and Do When Life is Scary, Awful, and Unfair to People You Love (2017)
by Kelsey Crowe and Emily McDowell

This book is such a gift to society, and I’m wondering if it’s possible to make a book like this required reading for everyone.  I kid myself in thinking that I grew up without anyone close to me experiencing any of Life’s “tough stuff.”  But, the more I think about, the more I realize I was just completely unaware.  I usually consider myself a fairly empathetic person, but, sadly, it wasn’t until quite recently in my life that I woke up and realized how poorly I’ve handled so much.  Being there for others, whether through an illness, a divorce, loss of a loved one, a job loss, or whatever it might be, is so very important.  I keep wondering how I can change the world or “save the world,” and, sometimes, it’s truly just being there for people that counts the most.  It’s all too easy when people are suffering through something to ignore the situation, avoid that person, or offer cliche words we’ve heard far too many times.  I think it wasn’t until I’d gone through some of this rough stuff myself that I realized just how hurtful some of these reactions can be.  And while I realize everyone is stumbling through and doing their best with what they know when it comes to supporting others through awful times, there are now beautiful resources like this one to help give us tools to be a little more graceful in our approach.

I can’t recommend this book highly enough.  The authors are genuine and helpful, without ever being judgmental.  It’s a book that should be read and re-read and taught through example.  Ms. Crowe offers, what looks like, awesome empathy courses, and Emily McDowell has a great and hilarious line of supportive, original greeting cards.