Meeting Ground Rules
A Compassionate Friends meeting offers parents, grandparents, and siblings the opportunity to speak freely about all parts of the grief experience. We ask only that the participants observe some basic ground rules designed to make everyone more comfortable and secure. We want these meetings to be a “safe haven” for all those grieving the death of a child, grandchild, or sibling. Keep in mind that we are a self-help support group and not professional grief counselors.
Participation in the group does not require dues or fees, but voluntary contributions are greatly appreciated to support various group activities and expenses.
Attendance at Compassionate Friends meetings is voluntary, individuals are free to attend as frequently or infrequently as they wish. You may wish to continue coming to meetings as long as you feel you are being helped or are reaching out to help the newly bereaved.
It is strictly prohibited to attend a meeting while intoxicated or under the influence of illegal substances that impair behavior or judgment.
Behaving aggressively or using inappropriate language is never acceptable during meetings. While emotions may run high, respecting fellow members is essential.
Meetings are smoke-free. Smoking is permitted only outside the building and please pick up your cigarette butts.
Cell phones and pagers should be set to silent mode to avoid disrupting discussions.
All parents, grandparents, and siblings are welcome no matter their religion, spiritual beliefs, racial or ethnic background, economic situation, or circumstances surrounding the loss of their child or sibling.
At your first meeting, you might feel overwhelmed but aim to join at least three meetings before deciding if the group suits you. Each month, we'll discuss different topics that could support you in dealing with grief. Be aware that some may feel worse after their first meeting. Don't let this discourage you from attending again. It's brave to come, and the rewards can be significant.
We want everyone to be as comfortable as possible at the meetings and therefore we keep them informal by design. If you need to get up and walk around or take a “time out” by leaving the meeting for a few minutes, that is perfectly OK.
Please keep what's shared in this group private. Don't discuss it with anyone outside the group. We all agree that anything shared here stays confidential. Building trust is crucial for us to share our deepest emotions.
Our members find unparalleled support and understanding, within the group, as they navigate the profound complexities of grief following the loss of a child, grandchild, or sibling.
While stories shared may be heartbreaking, it's important not to let them compound one's own sadness but rather recognize that opportunities to share are an important part of the healing process.
In a Compassionate Friends meeting, tears are not just permitted but recognized as an integral part of the healing journey. Here, one can weep openly, knowing that everyone present shares in the understanding and empathy.
Embracing each individual with unconditional acceptance, regardless of their words or actions, is paramount. Each person's grief journey is unique, and cultivating empathy and patience towards one another is a transformative experience. When our reflections become windows into others' experiences, genuine progress is made.
Participation in discussions is encouraged, but it's understood that some may find it difficult to speak due to the freshness of their loss or the intensity of their emotions. Choosing not to speak is respected, as much may be learned by listening.
The group fosters an environment of sincere openness, where honesty can flow freely from the heart, unburdened by the desire to conform to others' expectations.
Speak of what works for you. Sharing personal experiences is encouraged, without attempting to prescribe solutions, whether spiritual, medical, or legal, to others. Learning from one another's journeys is valued, with the recognition that no one knows best how another should navigate their grief.
Equitable participation is supported, with the understanding that some may need to speak more than others at different times. Please try not to monopolize the conversation, practice active listening, and avoid side conversations to ensure that everyone has the space to express themselves uninterrupted.
Meetings typically end at 8:45 p.m., but members are welcome to stay if they have time to get to know the other members of the group.