As the search for the missing flight MH370 enters its 14th day, more and more countries are joining in the search. While the world focuses on the press conferences by Malaysian officials and visuals of the rescue mission, those directly affected by the disappearance of the plane - the families of the missing passengers/crew - can only wait and pray.
As someone who had undergone a personal tragedy which claimed the life of a loved one, I cannot begin to imagine the pain that the families are going through. They go through each day in limbo....so many questions cannot be answered....every conjecture and speculation on the how, why and where would bring more pain. Their lives are on hold and they are clutching to hopes, however flimsy, that their loved ones are still alive somewhere out there.
Some tips on how to help the families cope with the uncertainty are in order. NEVER try to comfort them by saying "I know how you feel"....because you DON'T KNOW. Also, even though as Muslims we believe in Allah's will and we accept what has been planned for us by the Almighty (redha), this may not be the right time to tell them to be patient and accept what is fated. They have been patient for the last 2 weeks and some people are less resilient than others in the face of tragedy. It is more helpful to be there to listen to them, hold their hands and make them feel that someone cares.
It is also a good idea to help where you can - for example to help send/fetch young children to/from school, volunteer to babysit when needed or cook meals if the person happens to be a neighbor. It would also be a good idea to visit the person regularly (but not intrude on their privacy) just to find out how the person is managing and to let them know that you are there to help.
In the meantime, prayers do help and we can show our empathy by praying for their loved ones. We should also be considerate of their feelings and please do not spread rumors, misinformation and conspiracy theories as these will not benefit anyone; least of all the families.
I pray that there will be closure sooner rather than later.
