When I needed comfort as a child, I could go to several relatives. They often responded with, “There now. Don’t cry. Everything will be okay.” I felt better immediately. Everything usually was okay.

My troubles included such tragedies as:

• Bee stings
• Poison ivy
• Falls
• Childhood quarrels

For bigger problems, they doubled their comfort. “There, there now” gave an extra word for extra cheer.

A few problems lasted longer than usual. For those, they reminded me everything would come out in the wash.

I learned from their comfort how to comfort others.

There now soothes or reassures someone having a tough time.

It helps a hurting person:

• Calm down
• Cheer up
• Stop crying
• Relax
• Remember every cloud has a silver lining

The need for comfort does not stop as an adult.

Troubles may differ, but they remain as real.

• Health crises
• Relationship woes
• Financial stresses
• Work demands

Ways to cheer one another include:

• Prayers
• Notes
• Calls
• Visits
• Texts
• Hugs, if appropriate

Listening is more important than talking. Availability is more important than activity.

Shout for joy, you heavens; rejoice, you earth; burst into song, you mountains! For the Lord comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones (Isaiah 49:13 NIV).

Thanks to Rita Smalley for the suggestion.

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