roosa--When people ask me how I'm doing I don't lie and say I'm fine and I don't tell them how heartbroken I still am, I simply tell them that I'm hanging in there. I think that's probably the most honest answer that I, or any of us I'm sure, can give. There's really no need to say more than that, and usually the questions stop there. I don't think it's hard for others to accept, I think it just makes people who haven't been through it uncomfortable because they feel like they have to come up with the right words to say. I've learned the best place to talk about my feelings or to vent is here. Everyone just understands here, and that helps validate any feelings I'm struggling with--which makes my life more peaceful because I don't have to hide the way I'm feeling from anyone here. Take care, and remember we're all here for you whenever you need us!
Thanks for your reply. I am 'glad' to say that I actually got to that conclusion myself last night. I spend a lot of time thinking about what would be the best way to respond, and I think 'hanging in there' is a good reply and then to remember to ask back how people are doing... That gives them the option of moving onto other subjects or if they really want they can dig deeper into how I am really doing. I so understand what you say by people being uncomfortable and not knowing what to say. I wish there was an easy and short way to explain to people that I am still grieving but it is okay to talk about whatever. If they want to ask me about what happened, that's fine. If they want to talk about something totally different, that's fine too. I find that conversations go really easily with some people and not with others and it is hard to know beforehand. I am so glad that I have found this place. A place where I can share and vent and almost feel a bit normal...

Thanks again.
Karin