Jun 16 2008
Tim Russert and Grief
With the sudden passing of Tim Russert on Friday June 13, 2008, much media attention has been paid to this legendary journalist. Considering that I am one that is not particularly political, but I still knew he was, speaks to how well-known he was.
It’s also been touching to see that everyone who has commented on his death has had only the kindest things to say. He seems to have been just a well-regarded person with a high-profile job. Somewhat unusual in this day and age to have that many fans in such a “big” job.
At any rate, when I saw his 20-something son, Luke, on television this morning, I was blown away. Luke, having only had a few days to adjust to life without his father, was speaking eloquently, lovingly, and maturely about his dad. It reminded me of what I learned about grief as an undergrad—those stages of grief you’re supposed to go through? Not everyone goes through them in the same order or in the same time frame.
In grad school, my understanding of this expanded to: you have to meet grieving clients where they are. You can’t push someone through grief. They have to get there on their own. Luke Russert is a tribute to his father. I am sure Tim is looking down on him, smiling and proud.
I will speak more about teens and grief in the future but this was on my mind today so I thought I would share. Thanks for reading!
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