Bereavement comes to everyone eventually.
In the summer of 2011 it hit our family like a freight train on a cold dark night.
We lost three loved ones almost without warning, an aunt, a father and an uncle.
My desperate search for words of comfort and knowledge on how to deal with bereavement let to this article.
There are many sources of information on bereavement available.
I going to cover just 5.
They are:

• The Internet; Being kind of geeky, I began my search for information on the internet.
  At first you might think this is some what of an undignified way to follow-up on a death in the family.
  But there is no denying the wealth of information to be had at your finger tips.
  Try searching for these keywords; bereavement, bereaved, bereavement quotes, funeral poems, etc.
  
• Internet Forums; There are a number of forums, with an almost unlimited supply of virtual shoulders to cry on.
  Please be sensitive to the feelings of those participating.
  Remember they are going through or have gone through what you are.
  You may not be able to see them, but they are flesh and blood striving for clarity in their clouded world, after the passing of someone dear to them.
  
• A Religious Figure; Not only is this person well versed in dealing with death, but it is likely they knew the deceased personally.
  They will be able to speak with you on a level that no one else can.
  If you are looking for love, compassion and understanding this may very well be your best connection to the departed.
  
• Family; This one may seem obvious, but denial and withdrawing from social interactions is common in the bereaved.
  You can just be a good listener if you are not up to speaking yet.
  They may or may not show their feelings to you, but they are none the less dealing with bereavement in their own way.
  Just being there for each other often yields that warm fuzzy feeling, like a toasty comforter and a warm fireplace.
  And it never hurts to share a few hugs.
  
• Books; Yes, books.
  There is something about reading in a quiet comfortable location that soothes the soul.
  The big box book stores usually have quiet corners where you can preview books.
  If you know of a small "local" book store, so much the better.
  You may even find a sympathetic ear and a cup of tea at these.
  

Not all of these will work for everyone.
But that's OK.
Find something that you are comfortable with and let the healing begin.
As time passes you will once again enjoy life and remember loved ones loss with the fondest of memories.