You’ve learned an acquaintance has a terminal illness and he’s receiving treatment. Before you can send a note or a card, you bump into him at a meeting or on the street. What do you say? Are there any words of comfort for illness?

A supervisor learns that the sister of one of her employees has died while on vacation. It doesn’t appear to be from natural causes and they suspect foul play. The organization sent flowers and a condolence note. The employee is due back at work in two days and the supervisor wonders, what will I say?

Many of us face this dilemma. We’ve sent cards, written notes, expressed our concern and our condolences, but when placed face-to-face with the individual dealing with loss, we just can’t fathom what comforting words to say.

Whether someone is terminally ill or dealing with sudden or shocking death, their world is upside down. It’s hard to function in that state of mind and yet, here they are, trying to continue their lives in the spirit in which they’ve lived. So when you see them, at work, at a meeting, on the street, or in a restaurant, an appropriate response is, “I’m so glad to see you,” said with a handshake, a hug, or whatever greeting feels appropriate.

Don’t avoid or shy away from someone dealing with illness or loss. Greet them and let them know you care. And do it every time you see them. It’s how each of us would like to be treated in our time of need.