The year my mother-in-law died was a difficult year. She was diagnosed with cancer in January and passed away 4 short months later in May. Since she was only 55 years old, this was a shocking and unexpected loss. As we struggled through those difficult months of confusion, sadness, and fatigue, the burden was lightened as people stepped in to help. My husband's work colleagues and employees organized meals for our family at one point, an unexpected but tremendous blessing. Sometimes I would be struggling through the day, and I would received a text from a friend telling me they were thinking about me and praying for me, a small gesture that uplifted my soul in a difficult time.
As I muddled through the grief in the months following her passing, I did not expect to feel the anger I felt. It's difficult to admit, but I held resentment towards people close to me that, in my eyes at the time, failed to step up and help. I couldn't understand why I couldn't just "get over it." Then I read Option B. For anybody that is struggling or for anyone wanting to help someone who is struggling, Option B is a must read. The author, Sheryl Sandberg, lost her husband suddenly and unexpectedly. She (& Adam Grant) give practical, research based advice on helping people (yourself or someone else) build resilience through tough times. Option B helped me get passed my stuck place amidst the after effects of grief. This book helped me heal.