The Box: A simple but meaningful way to show up after someone dies

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This box 

Big gifts can come in small, hand-folded packages.

One of his students gave me this 11 days after Art died.  

That was over 15 years ago.

The letters of my name have fallen off.

The carefully crafted paper ribbon was crushed.

But I still keep the box and it sits again (after my move) on my bookshelf in my study.

The words inside are simple.

Dear Kim, 

I made this box card to hold all of your family memories with Art, but of course, there are many more than this box can hold. 

I want you to know that we are thinking of you.  

Our condolence,

—--- and family.  

Those words still touch me.

Look, worrying if your gesture is big or helpful enough does not matter.  

Showing up does. 

#whattosaytoagrieving person.