Natural disasters such as the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, or the Mississippi river flood leave a wake of devastation. They destroy people’s homes and crops, devastate lives, demolish communities, bankrupt businesses, and shatter our sense of safety. What do you say to someone dealing with an enormous loss?

"People don’t know what to say to someone who is heartbroken. It’s not their fault. No one has taught them what to say. If you say the wrong thing, you can actually make matters worse," said Aurora Winter, grief expert and founder of the Grief Coach Academy.

To comfort someone who is heartbroken, start by listening. "It’s important for you to know what an enormous gift you give by simply listening. It is a relief to a heartbroken person to talk about their loss," says Aurora Winter, author of From Heartbreak to Happiness.

For example, people might share their heartbreak over losing family photographs, a treasured family heirloom, or a pet. They might share their feelings of being overwhelmed at having to return to a devastated property and begin the process of rebuilding. They might share their financial fears.

"When you listen without fixing, you are being a true friend. Be patient and allow people to vent their feelings," says Aurora, a grief expert. "Don’t argue with a person’s feelings. Don’t interrupt to "problem solve." Having a sounding board helps people discover their own answers and their own solutions.

Here are Aurora’s suggestions for some good things to say.

DO SAY:

• You’re not alone – I’m here.
• I’m grateful that you are alive.
• It’s understandable that you’re upset. That’s a normal
  and natural reaction to this situation.
• I don’t know what to say.
• I know things look bleak right now, but things are going
  to get better. This too shall pass.
• I can’t imagine what you’re going through.
• My heart goes out to you.
• You’re capable and competent. I know you can handle this
  challenge. I’ve seen you overcome other challenges. I am here for you.
• I appreciate our friendship and I’m glad that you are
  sharing with me. You can call me anytime.
• Would you be willing to consider that something good may be
  unfolding here, in spite of appearances? What could that possibly be?
• Imagine things go perfectly from now on. What would be an
  ideal outcome one year from now? What could you be
  enthusiastic about?
• What specifically can I do to support you?

DON'T SAY:

• Don’t feel bad.
• It must have been God’s will.
• It’s your fault. You should have...
• I know how you feel.
• It just takes time.

"Time alone does not heal. The right actions heal. Be proactive," says Aurora, who hosts events to help people recover from loss and become happy again.

Attending the right event can be a fast way to reclaim peace of mind and happiness. "Amazing, incredible, indescribable! I have joy in my heart that I have not had for 4 ½ years!" said Miki Knowles after attending a grief coach training event.

"Healing is a process, and there is a light at the end of the tunnel,"says Aurora. "If I can go from heartbreak to happiness, you can, too."

Aurora’s book "From Heartbreak to Happiness" is her intimate diary of healing after her husband died suddenly at the age of 33, leaving her widowed with a 4-year-old son.

As a resource to comfort people dealing with loss, visit www.AuroraWinter.com/gifts/ and get your free copy of From Heartbreak to Happiness which has been endorsed by Dr. Wayne Dyer.

To learn more about how to help yourself and help otheres, visit http://www.GriefCoachAcademy.com and get a free CD.

About Aurora Winter

Formerly a film and TV executive producer, Aurora Winter is founder of Grief Coach Academy, which is dedicated to training coaches how to coach their clients through grief, and From Heartbreak to Happiness®. She hosts events to teach people how to help themselves and help others. The next event is September 10-11 in Los Angeles. Visit Power of Happiness Events for information.

She's a popular guest on radio, TV and print, and has reached over a million people with her message of hope, healing, and happiness. She's a sought-after workshop leader, coach trainer, speaker, and author.

Dr. Wayne Dyer endorsed Aurora's book, "From Heartbreak To Happiness". "I read every page of this beautiful diary -- it touched my heart and I'm sure it will impact yours." Visit http://www.AuroraWinter.com to get your complimentary ebook.

Aurora co-stars with best-selling authors including Bernie Seigel (author of "Love, Medicine, and Miracles") in the award-winning documentary "What If".

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